It is common knowledge that, in California, under certain circumstances, children under the age of eighteen (18) may work under certain circumstances. However, it’s not always clear what those circumstances are. This newsletter can help shed some light on that issue.
Q: Who is eligible for a work permit?
A: Work permits are issued at the school district’s discretion to thirteen (13) year old minors who have completed sixth (6) grade or its equivalent and minors who have completed seventh (7) grade or its equivalent. Work permits may also be issued to minors who are believed to be in danger of dropping out of school and/or minors participating in an employment program carried out on school grounds.
Q: Are all minors able to work the same number of hours?
A: No, the hours minors can work during school days vary based on age.
Q: What is the maximum number of hours a minor can work while school is in session?
A: While school is in session, aside from :
Minors age twelve (12) or thirteen (13) may be employed only during school holidays and vacations, including weekends. They may never be employed on a school day, either before, during or after school.
Minors fourteen to fifteen (14-15) years old are eligible to work up to three (3) hours per school day outside of school hours; eight (8) hours on any non-school day; and up to eighteen (18) hours per week.
Minors sixteen to seventeen (16-17) years old are eligible to work up to four (4) hours on any school day; eight (8) hours on any non-school day; and up to forty-eight (48) hours per week.
Q: What is the maximum number of hours a minor can work on a day for which school is not in session?
A: On non-school days, minors are able to work up to eight (8) hours per day and forty (40) hours per week, except for minors age sixteen (16) and above who can work up to forty-eight (48) hours per week.
Q: Are there any restrictions applicable to minors’ work schedule?
A: Yes. Minors below the age of sixteen (16) cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m., except from June 1 through Labor Day, during which they can work until 9 p.m. Minors above that age can work from 5m. to 10 p.m., except for evenings before non-school days, for which they can work until 12:30 a.m.
Q: Do these rules apply to all students?
A: No. There are exceptions for students who serve as personal attendants, messengers, or are engage in work experience education (“WEE”). These rules are general guidelines for the majority of students
Q: What consequences can employers face for violating minors’ employment rights?
A: Employers can face fines or even imprisonment for violating the statute. But they also face reputational impact. In a field where reputation holds a vital role for business ventures, filing a lawsuit against violators not only impacts their finances but also leaves a stain on their reputation as lawsuits are a matter of public record visible to current and future business partners.
Q: Does Bibiyan Law Group handle cases for violations of minor’s employment rights?
A: Yes. The attorneys at Bibiyan Law Group, P.C. are at the forefront of protecting employee rights, including those of minors. Should you have any questions or suspect your rights or your child’s rights have been violated, you can call Bibiyan Law Group, P.C. at 323-693-8490 to learn more and discuss your potential options.
David Bibiyan is a distinguished attorney at Tomorrow Law™, renowned for his expertise in employment law. With a strong focus on representing employees in various workplace disputes, he has become a trusted advocate for those facing discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and wage and hour issues. Bibiyan’s approach is characterized by a deep understanding of both state and federal employment laws, ensuring that his clients receive knowledgeable and effective representation. His commitment to justice is evident in his dedication to each case, where he meticulously works to secure the best possible outcomes for his clients. Bibiyan’s reputation is built on a foundation of successful case resolutions, marked by his skillful negotiation and, when necessary, aggressive litigation strategies. His work at Tomorrow Law™ reflects a genuine passion for defending workers’ rights and promoting fair employment practices.