Teen work permit requirements for 14-and-15-year-olds to be eliminated?

[Winny]

If you're a 14 or 15 year old wanting to work in Wisconsin, you may be able to start much sooner without the need for a permit. A new GOP-backed bill in Wisconsin is hoping to achieve that, by proposing to outright eliminate work permits for those aged 14 and 15. The move would bring a significant change to the process these individuals have to make in order to obtain employment. If this bill is to pass, it would mean that teenagers in this age range (14-15) would no longer need the currently required state-approved work permits.

The change is said to be a way to reduce government bureaucracy, as emphasized by Rep. Clint Moses, who is in favor of this bill. Democrats and state regulators on the other hand, seem to be a bit more opposed to it, as they have concerns it could make enforcing child labor laws more challenging. As well, it's being criticized for the possibility it could cause issues with current child labor protections.

This new change means no need for obtaining a school and state-approved work permit. For more on this story and what it could mean for you, can find the full article here.

 

[Jake]

When I read the title, my immediate thought is, won't this just make it easier for younger kids to get jobs? If a permit isn't required, couldn't a younger kid in turn possibly get a job if they lied about their age? Or would it only be for 14-15 year olds? How do they verify the child's age? With the birth certificate, or a personal ID?

To me, it feels like we're going backwards towards child labor.

 

[Nomad]

The proposed GOP-backed bill in Wisconsin, aiming to eliminate work permits for 14 and 15-year-olds, sparks an interesting debate. The move seems to align with the goal of reducing government bureaucracy and simplifying the process for young teenagers to enter the workforce. The opposition from Democrats also raises valid concerns related to child labor. Child labor protections are in place for a reason, and any changes to these regulations should carefully balance the desire for reduced bureaucracy with the need to safeguard the well-being of young workers.