Legislation relaxes requirements for teenagers’ work permits

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The state House of Representatives recently approved legislation making it easier for teenagers to join the workforce.

House Bill 1829 would amend the act of Oct. 24, 2012, known as the Child Labor Act to waive a requirement for how teenagers obtain a work permit.

For teenagers to receive a work permit, they must sign the document in front of an issuing officer who must then examine it. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Wolf administration waived the signature regulation. The bill would permanently remove the requirement.

Rep. Torren Ecker (R-Adams/Cumberland) introduced the bill. It was considered by the House Appropriations Committee and the House Labor and Industry Committee.

“My first job was washing dishes in a diner, and I still carry with me the valuable lessons I learned there as a teenager,” Ecker said. “This bill will help teens land jobs, contribute to the economy and learn the worth of working hard. At a time when there are numerous open jobs and businesses struggling to fill positions, removing their barrier to enter the workforce will help drive our economy all while helping teens gain work experience.”

The bill now moves to the Senate Labor and Industry Committee for consideration.