Georgia Child Labor Laws
Georgia has some of the most stringent child labor laws in the country. As of October 1, 2020, the minimum age to work in Georgia is fourteen, with notable exceptions for certain types of work. However, even those younger than fourteen may still be able to obtain employment if they can demonstrate an education or unique skill set that makes them a suitable fit.
The State Labor Commissioner’s Office oversees all child labor laws in Georgia and ensures that employers comply with these regulations. To ensure safety and fairness for young people, there are strict limits on how many hours minors can work per week and when they can work during school days and holidays. Furthermore, children must have a valid work permit before beginning any job; without it, employers may face significant fines for noncompliance.
Child Labor Laws in Georgia For Minors Under 14
Child labor laws in Georgia are set in place to protect minors under the age of 14 from exploitation. These regulations dictate the hours and types of work minors may do and provide a safe environment for these young workers. In Georgia, it’s prohibited for those under 14 years old to be employed in any type of business, with a few exceptions.
The only type of employment minors are allowed to participate in is non-hazardous domestic work around their own homes or on farms owned by their family members. Moreover, children who are 13 years old can be legally employed, but only if they have written permission from both parents and the school’s principal or superintendent. Furthermore, they must also receive written permission from the Department of Labor before being able to work. Additionally, only minors under 14 can work anytime between 10:00 pm.
Child Labor Laws in Georgia For Minors 14 and 15 Years Old
Child labor laws in Georgia are designed to protect children under 16 from working in dangerous or unsuitable conditions. For minors aged 14 and 15, these laws limit their work hours per day and week and define the jobs they can take.
In Georgia, minors aged 14 and 15 may work up to 4 hours on school days or 8 hours on non-school days. During the summer, their total hourly limit rises to 9 and 40, respectively. They must also have at least 30 minutes of break time after every 3 consecutive work hours. When it comes to jobs that are considered hazardous (such as mining, operating machinery, etc.), minors aged fourteen and fifteen cannot be employed by any means whatsoever.
Child Labor Laws in Georgia For Minors 16 and 17 Years Old
Child labor laws in Georgia for minors 16 and 17 years old are particular and regulated. These laws set forth the number of hours minors can work, the type of jobs they can do, and when they may be employed. Parents and employers must understand these regulations to ensure children are safe while they work.
In Georgia, children aged 16 or 17 may work up to 8 hours a day, with at most 48 hours a week. They are also not allowed to begin working before 7:00 am or after 7:00 pm except during summer when nighttime work ends at 9:00 pm. Minors under 16 must obtain special permission from the Department of Labor to gain employment in any capacity.
Georgia law prohibits minors from engaging in hazardous occupations that impact their well-being, such as operating heavy machinery or working with toxic substances.
Job Restrictions Of Minors In Georgia Child Labor Laws
Minors in the state of Georgia are subject to specific laws and guidelines regarding working, as specified by the Georgia Department of Labor. Specific jobs and age restrictions have been established to protect minors from exploitation or dangerous work environments. While there are some exceptions, children cannot do certain jobs under any circumstances.
The main types of jobs that minors cannot do within the state include those involving hazardous materials, such as driving a forklift or operating hazardous machinery. Minors also may not be employed in any manufacturing job, including meat-packing or fabrication-related activities. Other prohibited activities include mining and construction, such as bricklaying or welding. Additionally, no minor can work in any job requiring them to be exposed to alcohol or tobacco products.