Labor Commissioner reminds teens, employers about labor laws

    Maine Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman is reminding teens, parents and employers about labor laws protecting young workers and the process for obtaining a work permit.
    “Long hours or dangerous working conditions can be especially harmful for teens — that’s why we have child labor standards in Maine labor laws,” said Fortman.
    All minors under the age of 16 must have a work permit before they start a job. Since school is closed, applications must be sent to the superintendent’s office in the district where the student resides, not where the student will work.
    Parents and employers can help expedite the approval process by making sure each request includes proof of age and parental approval. The application must also contain the specific job title (“laborer” is too general) and the actual business name.
    Teens under age 16 must get a new work permit for each new job. Teens can have two work permits (for two different jobs) during the summer. And child labor laws limit the number of hours teens may work.
    Child labor laws also prohibit minors from working at many of the more dangerous jobs. Some of the jobs Maine teens under 18 years old cannot do include operating most mechanical equipment, driving for work and working alone in a cash-based business.
    A copy of the Guide to Maine Laws Governing the Employment of Minors is posted on the Maine Department of Labor website or by calling 623-7900. 
    Fortman encouraged teens looking for summer jobs and employers seeking workers to visit Maine’s Job Bank, at www.mainecareercenter.com. Employers can upload and manage job postings on Maine’s Job Bank at no cost and workers can search for jobs that match their qualifications and preferences.