Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00359

Introduced
1/9/25  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Employment Of Minors At Least Sixteen Years Of Age In Certain Occupations.

Impact

The proposed legislation is expected to have a significant impact on state labor laws by providing more robust pathways for minors to participate in the job market. By allowing sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds to work in roles that require equipment operation under supervision, the bill seeks to foster skills development among youth and support economic growth in sectors that rely heavily on staff, particularly in regions where labor shortages are prominent. This adjustment could result in increased employment rates among teens, thereby enhancing their work experience and financial literacy.

Summary

SB00359 is a legislative proposal aiming to amend section 31-23 of the general statutes to allow minors who are at least sixteen years of age to be employed in certain occupations within the hospitality, restaurant, or grocery sectors, which were previously restricted to individuals eighteen and older. This change intends to expand vocational opportunities for younger individuals, facilitating their entry into the workforce while also addressing labor shortages in these industries.

Contention

While the bill opens opportunities for younger workers, it may also attract contention regarding workplace safety and the adequacy of training provided to minors. Critics might raise concerns about whether sufficient safeguards are in place to ensure that minors can operate equipment safely and effectively, particularly in high-paced environments such as commercial kitchens. The necessity for direct supervision by older, better-trained individuals is essential to mitigate these risks, and the effectiveness of this monitoring could ultimately be a point of debate in the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00832

An Act Concerning Supermarkets And The Hiring Of Individuals At Least Sixteen Years Of Age.

CT SB00831

An Act Concerning Amusement Parks And The Employment Of Individuals At Least Fourteen Years Of Age.

CT SB01090

An Act Concerning The Employment Of Certain Minors As Youth Camp Staff Members And Lifeguards.

CT SB00410

An Act Concerning Paid Internships For High School Students.

CT SB00414

An Act Concerning Equity In State Employment.

CT HB05859

An Act Concerning Employment Of Individuals In Agricultural Labor.

CT SB00346

An Act Concerning Occupational License Portability For Members Of The Armed Forces And Their Spouses.

CT SB00135

An Act Establishing A Maximum Charge For Certain Occupational Licenses, Certifications, Permits And Registrations.

CT SJ00035

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment To Allow Individuals Who Have Attained The Age Of Sixteen To Apply For Admission As Electors And To Be So Admitted Upon Attaining The Age Of Eighteen.

CT HJ00216

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment To Allow Individuals Who Have Attained The Age Of Sixteen To Apply For Admission As Electors And To Be So Admitted Upon Attaining The Age Of Eighteen.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.