Bill > HB4441

This bill modifies Michigan's Youth Employment Standards Act to enhance protections and penalties for employing minors illegally. The bill updates restrictions on youth employment by clarifying that minors cannot be employed in hazardous or injurious occupations and provides specific age-based exceptions for certain types of work, such as being a golf caddy, athletic program referee, or working in specific agricultural settings. The bill grants the director of labor expanded enforcement powers, including the ability to impose administrative fines up to $5,000 for violations, conduct inspections, and bring legal actions against employers. Critically, the bill significantly increases criminal penalties for employers who violate youth employment laws, with escalating consequences for repeat offenses. For first-time offenders, penalties include misdemeanor charges with potential jail time and fines up to $5,000. Subsequent offenses can result in felony charges with potential imprisonment and fines ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. The bill also introduces severe penalties if a minor is killed or seriously injured while working, including mandatory fines between $50,000 and $500,000 and potential prison sentences of up to 20 years for repeated violations. Additionally, the bill prohibits employers from retaliating against employees or minors who report violations of the youth employment standards.

Government Affairs

https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-HB-4441