When it comes to employment for kids in Colorado, it’s important for both employers and young workers to understand the laws and regulations in place. Colorado has specific guidelines to protect the rights and ensure the safety of minors in the workforce.
Under the Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act (CYEOA), a minor is defined as any person under the age of eighteen, except those who have received a high school diploma or a passing score on the general educational development examination. The CYEOA, enacted in 1971, along with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), a federal law, governs youth employment in Colorado. The Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics enforces the provisions of the CYEOA, while the U.S. Department of Labor handles federal law and the FLSA.
Key Takeaways:
- The Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act (CYEOA) defines a minor as anyone under the age of eighteen, except those who have received a high school diploma or passed the general educational development examination.
- The CYEOA and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) govern youth employment in Colorado.
- The Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics enforces the CYEOA, while the U.S. Department of Labor handles federal law and the FLSA.
Young Worker Permits and Exemptions
Under the Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act (CYEOA), the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics may grant exemptions to certain provisions of the Act. These exemptions provide flexibility for young workers and employers who meet specific criteria. To apply for an exemption, individuals can complete the Youth Law Exemption Request Form. This allows for consideration of alternative arrangements that support the balance between education and employment.
In addition to exemptions, the Division accepts and investigates complaints related to alleged violations of Colorado youth law. If young workers have concerns regarding hours worked, prohibited occupations, age restrictions, or other non-wage violations of the CYEOA, they can complete and submit the Youth Law Complaint Form. By reporting violations, the Division can take appropriate action to ensure the safety and well-being of young workers.
If you believe you may qualify for an exemption or have experienced a violation of Colorado youth employment laws, it is essential to understand your rights and utilize the resources available to you. By following the appropriate channels, you can help create a safer and fairer working environment for young workers in Colorado.
Benefits of Exemptions and Complaints
“Exemptions and complaints provide mechanisms for young workers to have their specific needs considered and addressed. They ensure that employers have the necessary flexibility to navigate within the confines of the law, while still maintaining a safe and lawful working environment for young workers. By providing a means of recourse, young workers and their guardians have peace of mind knowing that their concerns will be addressed and appropriate action will be taken.”
| Permit Type | Eligibility Criteria | Application Process | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Worker Exemption | – Meet age, education, and training requirements – Provide a comprehensive plan that demonstrates how the exemption will benefit the minor |
– Complete and submit the Youth Law Exemption Request Form – Attach supporting documentation outlining the proposed exemption – Await review and approval from the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics |
– Allows young workers to work in limited permissible occupations – Provides an opportunity to gain valuable skills and experiences that align with their educational goals – Offers flexibility in working hours to balance education and employment |
| Youth Law Complaint | – Young workers who experience violations of Colorado youth employment laws – Individuals with knowledge of violations |
– Complete and submit the Youth Law Complaint Form – Provide detailed information regarding the alleged violation – Include any supporting evidence, such as work schedules or witness statements |
– Triggers an investigation by the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics – Ensures that employers are held accountable for violating youth employment laws – Protects the rights and safety of young workers |
Work Restrictions for Minors Under 16
When it comes to employing minors in Colorado, there are important work restrictions that employers need to be aware of. These restrictions aim to protect the well-being and educational opportunities of young workers under the age of 16.
- No employer is allowed to work a minor more than 40 hours in a week or more than eight hours in any 24-hour period.
- For minors under 16, there are specific work hour limitations:
| Day | Hours Allowed |
|---|---|
| School Day | No more than three hours |
| Non-School Day | Up to eight hours |
| School Week | No work time in excess of 18 hours |
| Non-School Week | Up to 40 hours |
It’s important to note that on school days, during school hours, no minor under the age of 16 is permitted employment unless they have a school release permit issued by the superintendent of the school district where the minor is enrolled. This ensures that minors are not missing out on their educational responsibilities.
By adhering to these work restrictions, employers can contribute to the healthy development and educational success of young workers. It is vital for both employers and parents or guardians to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure the well-being of minors in the workforce.
Work Restrictions for Minors 16 and 17
Minors 16 and 17 years old in Colorado have certain work restrictions to ensure their safety and well-being. While there are no specific time restrictions for when they can be scheduled to work, they are still subject to overall work limitations outlined by state and federal laws.
According to Colorado’s youth employment laws, minors 16 and 17 years old are prohibited from working more than 40 hours in a week or more than eight hours in any 24-hour period. These limitations are in place to protect young workers from excessive work hours, which can affect their education, health, and overall development.
Employers must be mindful of these restrictions and schedule minors’ work hours accordingly to comply with the law. By ensuring minors do not exceed the specified limits, employers can prioritize the well-being of young workers and create a safe and balanced work environment.
Work Restrictions for Minors 16 and 17
| Restrictions | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Weekly Hours | 40 hours |
| Maximum Daily Hours | 8 hours in any 24-hour period |
Complying with these work restrictions not only ensures legal compliance but also promotes the well-being and development of minors in the workforce. It allows them to balance their employment responsibilities with other activities, such as education, extracurriculars, and personal time.
Employers should always prioritize the safety and welfare of their young workers, providing them with appropriate working conditions, fair wages, and opportunities for growth. It is essential to familiarize oneself with the specific regulations outlined by the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics and the U.S. Department of Labor to ensure compliance with all applicable laws regarding the employment of minors.
Prohibited Occupations for Minors
In Colorado, there are specific occupations that are prohibited for minors, regardless of their age. These occupations pose significant risks to the health and safety of young workers. It is important for employers and minors to be aware of these prohibited occupations to ensure compliance with the state’s child labor laws.
Prohibited Occupations:
| Occupation | Reason |
|---|---|
| Operating high-pressure steam boilers or high-temperature water boilers | High risk of accidents and injuries due to the complexity and danger associated with operating such machinery. |
| Work involving the risk of falling from elevated places ten feet or more above the ground | Significant danger of falls and serious injuries. |
| Manufacturing, transporting, or storing explosives | Potential for explosions and severe harm to individuals. |
| Mining, logging, oil drilling, quarrying | Highly hazardous industries with risks of accidents, exposure to harmful substances, and physical strain. |
| Work involving exposure to radioactive substances or ionizing radiation | Exposure to radiation can have severe health consequences and long-term effects. |
| Operating power-driven machinery such as woodworking machines, metal-forming machines, punching or shearing machines, bakery machines, paper products machines, shears, automatic pin-setting machines, and power food slicers and grinders | Dangerous machinery that can cause severe injuries due to moving parts and sharp tools. |
| Occupations related to livestock slaughter, brick manufacturing, roofing, and excavation operations | High risk of accidents, exposure to hazardous materials, and physical strain. |
It is crucial for employers to adhere to these prohibited occupations to protect young workers from potential harm. Additionally, minors should be aware of their rights and should not engage in any of these occupations. The Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics provides comprehensive guidelines and resources to help employers and minors better understand and comply with the state’s child labor laws.
Conclusion
Understanding the Colorado teen worker regulations and underage employment laws Colorado is essential for employers, minors, and their parents or guardians. By adhering to these regulations, employers can ensure that they are in compliance and provide a safe working environment for young workers. It is crucial for minors and their parents or guardians to be knowledgeable about their rights and responsibilities when it comes to employment in Colorado.
To obtain further information and guidance on youth employment laws, it is recommended to consult the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics and the U.S. Department of Labor. These organizations can provide comprehensive resources and assistance regarding Colorado work permit for minors and other relevant employment regulations.
By staying informed and acting in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations, both employers and minors can contribute to a secure and nurturing work environment, ensuring the well-being and protection of young workers in the state of Colorado.
FAQ
What is the legal working age in Colorado?
In Colorado, a minor is defined as anyone under the age of eighteen, except those who have received a high school diploma or passed the general educational development examination.
What laws apply to youth employment in Colorado?
The laws that apply to youth employment in Colorado are the Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act (CYEOA) and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which is a federal law.
How can I apply for an exemption to Colorado youth employment laws?
To apply for an exemption, individuals can complete the Youth Law Exemption Request Form available from the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics.
Where can I file a complaint for alleged violations of Colorado youth employment laws?
Complaints related to violations of Colorado youth employment laws can be submitted using the Youth Law Complaint Form provided by the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics.
What are the work hour limitations for minors under 16 in Colorado?
Minors under 16 in Colorado are limited to no more than three hours of work on a school day, a maximum of eight hours on a non-school day, and a total of 18 hours during a school week.
Can minors under 16 work during school hours?
No, minors under the age of 16 in Colorado are not permitted to work during school hours unless they have a school release permit issued by the superintendent of the school district where they are enrolled.
Are there specific work hour restrictions for minors 16 and 17 in Colorado?
No, minors 16 and 17 in Colorado do not have specific time restrictions for when they can be scheduled to work. However, they are still subject to the overall work limitations of no more than 40 hours in a week or eight hours in any 24-hour period.
What occupations are prohibited for minors in Colorado?
Certain occupations are prohibited for all minors in Colorado, including operating high-pressure steam boilers or high-temperature water boilers, working at elevated places ten feet or more above the ground, working with explosives, mining, logging, oil drilling, quarrying, working with radioactive substances or ionizing radiation, and operating power-driven machinery.
Is there a conclusion to these Colorado youth employment laws?
Understanding and following the youth employment laws in Colorado is essential for employers, minors, and their parents or guardians. It is important to consult the Colorado Division of Labor Standards and Statistics and the U.S. Department of Labor for more information and guidance on youth employment laws.
