The bill amends and reenacts sections of the Code of West Virginia related to child labor, specifically targeting the employment of 14- and 15-year-olds. It eliminates the requirement for these minors to obtain a work permit, as previously mandated in section 21-6-4, and instead requires employers to obtain parental or guardian consent and an age certificate before employing them. The State Commissioner of Labor is authorized to issue these age certificates, which must include specific information such as the child's name, date and place of birth, and details regarding parental consent and job description.

Additionally, the bill sets forth penalties for individuals who illegally issue age certificates or provide false information regarding a child's age or employment qualifications. The penalties include fines and potential jail time for repeat offenders. The repeal of section 21-6-8a, which dealt with blanket work permits, further streamlines the process for employing minors by focusing on parental consent and age verification through the newly established age certificate system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 21-6-5, 21-6-8, 21-6-10, 21-6-3, 21-6-4, 21-6-8a
Committee Substitute: 21-6-3, 21-6-5, 21-6-10, 21-6-4, 21-6-8a
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 21-6-3, 21-6-5, 21-6-10, 21-6-4, 21-6-8a