What California Employers Should Know When Hiring Minors
The state of California is home to many businesses and organizations, and with that comes the need to hire minors. Before employing minors under the age of 18, it’s important for employers in the state to understand the laws and regulations that apply to this segment of the workforce.
The most basic requirement is that a minor must be at least 14 years of age to work. However, this is just the beginning. California employers must also obtain a work permit for minors under the age of 18. It’s important to note that employers are responsible for obtaining all the necessary paperwork for the permit.
In addition to the basic requirements, there are several other important considerations for employers in California when hiring minors. These include:
Age Restrictions:
In California, it is illegal to hire minors under the age of 14. The only exceptions to this rule are children employed in a family business, newspaper carriers, and child actors or performers.
Hours of Work:
The hours of work for minors vary by age. Generally speaking, minors aged 14 and 15 are limited to three hours on school days and eight hours on non-school days. For minors aged 16 and 17, the limit is eight hours on school days and eight hours on non-school days.
Rest Periods:
In California, minors are entitled to a 30-minute rest period for every four hours worked. The rest period must be uninterrupted and given in the middle of the work period.
Meal Periods:
Minors aged 14 and 15 are entitled to a 30-minute unpaid meal period for every five hours worked. Minors aged 16 and 17 are entitled to a 30-minute unpaid meal period for every four hours worked. The meal period must be uninterrupted and given no later than the fifth hour of work.
Minimum Wage:
The minimum wage for minors in California is the same as the minimum wage for adults. As of January 2021, the minimum wage for all workers in California is $14.00 per hour.
Overtime:
Minors are entitled to overtime pay after 40 hours of work in a single workweek. The overtime rate is 1.5 times the regular rate of pay.
Workplace Safety:
Minors in California have the same workplace safety rights and protections as adults. Employers in the state must ensure that all minors are provided with a safe and healthy work environment.
Filing an Employment Application:
In California, minors must obtain permission from a parent or guardian in order to file an employment application. The permission must be in writing and must be signed by the parent or guardian.
California employers have a responsibility to understand and adhere to the laws and regulations that apply to minors. It’s important to ensure that all minors are provided with a safe and healthy work environment and that they are paid in accordance with the state’s minimum wage laws. By understanding the rules and regulations that apply to minors in the workplace, employers in California can ensure that their business is in compliance with the law and that minors are treated fairly.
