Hiring Teens: What Employers Need To Know

Summer jobs are a great way for teenagers to earn money and gain valuable work experience. However, employers need to be aware of the legal issues surrounding the employment of minors in New York State. The state has strict laws in place to protect the rights of young workers, and failure to comply with these laws can result in serious consequences for employers.

One of the most important issues employers need to be aware of when hiring minors is the minimum age requirement for certain jobs. For example, minors under the age of 14 are generally not allowed to work except in very limited circumstances, such as in entertainment or agriculture. Minors between the ages of 14 and 17 can work in a wider range of jobs, but there are restrictions on the number of hours they can work and the types of tasks they can perform.

Employers also need to be aware of the requirements for providing sick leave to their employees. All employees, including minors, are entitled to sick leave under NYS law. Employers with five or more employees must provide paid sick leave, while those with fewer than five employees must provide unpaid sick leave. The amount of sick leave that employees are entitled to depends on the size of the employer and the length of the employee’s tenure.

Another important issue that employers need to be aware of is record-keeping requirements. New York State requires employers to keep certain records related to the employment of minors, including their names, ages, and hours worked. Employers must also keep records of any accidents or injuries that occur on the job and any complaints or grievances that employees raise.

To ensure compliance with these laws and avoid potential legal issues, employers should review their hiring practices and ensure that they are in line with state and federal laws. This includes verifying the age of all applicants and ensuring that they are legally allowed to work in the job for which they are applying. Employers should also review their sick leave policies and ensure that they are providing the appropriate amount of sick leave to all employees, including minors.

Employers need to be aware of the legal issues surrounding the employment of teens. To ensure compliance with these laws and avoid potential legal issues, employers should review their hiring practices, sick leave policies, and record-keeping procedures, and make any necessary changes to ensure that they are in line with state and federal laws. By taking these steps, employers can protect themselves and their young employees and create a safe and positive work environment for all.