Rules for Kids who Work

Topics

Rules for Kids Who Work:
Explains work permits and laws based on age

Wages:
Explains Minimum Wage, Overtime, how often workers should be paid. It also explains taxes and why money is taken from your pay.

Resources:
Links to agencies and legal resources who may help with your case.

Laws:
Fair Labor Standards Act , 29 U.S.C. 201 et seq and
Md. Labor and Employment Code § 3

Many laws have been written to help youth (under age 18) at work. This is what employment laws do:

Keep kids in safe jobs;
Ensure kids are not overworked;
Prohibit discrimination;
Give decent pay.

There are also laws for work permits and taxes.

Safety: Workers under 18 may not work in dangerous jobs! Call the Maryland Department of Labor at (410) 767-2228 to learn if your job is safe.

You can see an overview of some of the dangerous jobs such as construction, metal work, meatpacking, manufacturing jobs, work with chemicals or brewing alcohol. For details from the government, the US Department of Labor and the State of Maryland have a list of jobs considered dangerous and prohibited for youth.

Attorneys help kids! Contact an attorney if you think you have a legal issue or are unsure of your employment rights. If you are income eligible, some programs may provide you a volunteer attorney.

Discrimination Most employers are not allowed to discriminate based on race, sex, religion, national origin, color, age or disability. More information on job discrimination protection.

Source: Rob Bader

Last date of legal review 7/1/06 (MVLS/RB)