Minor work permit process altered to expand workforce

Recognizing the valuable function minors serve in the workforce, Governor Tony Evers issued an emergency order on March 26 allowing employers to hire minors without a child labor permit while labor permit offices are closed to the public.

Details

Under the order, child labor permits for minors who are 14 or 15 years old aren’t required during the public health emergency if the employer obtains the following information before hiring or permitting a minor to work:

• Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate, baptismal certificate, Wisconsin ID card);
• Employer’s written intent to hire, including job duties to be performed and the hours and time of day to be worked, signed by the employer or someone duly authorized by the employer;
• Written consent from the minor’s parent, guardian, or court-ordered foster parent consenting to the employment or a countersignature of the parent, guardian, or foster parent on the employer’s letter; and
• A copy of the minor’s Social Security card.

Once the information is received, the employer must notify the Department of Workforce Development by e-mail advising that the minor started work and provide the following information: