Youth Employment Information
On January 3, 2007, significant amendments were made to the Massachusetts Child Labor Laws, M.G.L. c. 149, 53-105. These amendments were effective immediately. The amendments affect minors' working hours, provide for certain additional required supervision, streamline the work permit process, strengthen existing criminal penalties and also allow for civil penalties in the event of violations. A complete summary of the Massachusetts laws regulating child labor, including the recent changes, may be found below.As a result of this legislation, there is now a single application and permit process for all teen workers ages 14-17. All teens under 18 years of age must complete a work permit application and obtain a work permit before starting a new job.
