Requesting The Department Of Labor And Industrial Relations To Complete A Comparative Study Of Its Policies On Youth Employment And Federal Requirements For Youth Employment Under The Fair Labor Standards Act.
The resolution highlights a significant gap in current youth employment practices in Hawaii, where existing regulations may hinder the ability of minors to gain meaningful work experience. By directing the Department of Labor to investigate how states with less stringent certification processes manage youth employment, HR60 aims to identify potential barriers created by Hawaii's current requirements. This study could pave the way for legislative changes that would better align statewide policies with proven practices found in other states, promoting greater accessibility to work-based learning opportunities for youth.
House Resolution 60 (HR60) aims to enhance youth employment opportunities in Hawaii by requesting the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to conduct a comparative study of the state's youth employment policies in relation to federal requirements under the Fair Labor Standards Act. With only 51% of Hawaii's public school graduates from the class of 2021 pursuing post-secondary education immediately after graduation, there is a pressing need to create more viable paths for young individuals entering the workforce. This initiative seeks to provide insights into facilitating hands-on learning experiences that could elevate educational and career outcomes for at-risk youth.
One of the central points of contention is the requirement for employment certificates and age certifications for minors, which Hawaii currently mandates unlike most states. Critics of the existing regulations argue that these requirements may serve as obstacles rather than safeguards, especially in encouraging local businesses to offer internships and other work experiences for youth. As a result, discussions surrounding HR60 may face scrutiny regarding the balance between protecting youth workers and fostering opportunities that allow them to acquire necessary skills and experiences in the labor market.