Bill > SB427

This bill modifies West Virginia's child labor laws by eliminating the requirement for 14- and 15-year-olds to obtain a work permit before employment. Instead, the bill requires employers to obtain parental or guardian consent and an age certificate from the State Commissioner of Labor prior to hiring teenagers aged 14 and 15. The age certificate must include the child's full name, date and place of birth, parent or guardian contact information, and must be supported by documentation such as a birth certificate. The Commissioner of Labor is authorized to issue these age certificates and can investigate and revoke them if improperly issued. The bill maintains penalties for violations, including fines ranging from $50 to $1,000 and potential jail time for repeat offenders. Employers must keep the age certificate on file and accessible to enforcement officers, and the certificate will serve as proof of the child's age. The changes aim to streamline the process of employing young teenagers while still maintaining safeguards to protect minors in the workplace.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=427&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill