The Senate passed a bill on Friday that could allow teenagers in West Virginia to be employed without a work permit.
Senate Bill 427 would remove the current requirement in state law that requires 14- and 15-year-olds to obtain a work permit from the superintendent of schools as a condition of employment.
Under the proposed law, prospective employers seeking to hire 14- and 15-year-olds would still need to obtain written consent from the child’s parent or guardian. The employer would also be required to obtain an age certificate from the state Commissioner of Labor. The commissioner would review the child’s birth certificate prior to issuing the age certificate.
Employers would also need to spell out the hours that the 14-and 15 year olds would be working if this bill passes.
Current law dictates that minors younger than 16 must obtain a work permit through their school. The certificate, signed by the school principal, confirms that the student is attending school.
The bill now heads to the House of Delegates for consideration.
The body also introduced bills 627-638 on Friday.
The Senate is adjourned until Monday, March 3, at 11 a.m.
Morning Meetings for March 3:
Gov. Org. at 9:30 a.m. in 208W
