Work in Utah:- Employment regulations for minors in Utah are designed to ensure their fair treatment, safeguarding their well-being and education. Employers must navigate through various rules concerning wages, working hours, breaks, and prohibited occupations to comply with state and federal laws.
Compensation and Working Hours
The Utah Labor Commission mandates that minors under 18 receive at least the minimum wage, with the option for employers to pay $4.25 per hour for the first 90 days of employment. The prevailing minimum wage aligns with the federal standard of $7.25 per hour.
When it comes to working hours, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) outlines specific restrictions based on age:
Minors Under 16 Years Old
- On school days: Can work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., with a maximum of 3 hours and 18 hours per week.
- School out of session: Can work between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., with no more than 8 hours on a non-school day and 40 hours in a weekday.
- Minors Aged 16 and 17 Years: No particular restrictions on work hours.
Working Permit and Documentation (Work in Utah)
Unlike some states, Utah does not require minors under 18 to obtain a work permit. However, employers must have evidence of compliance with child labor laws, which can be fulfilled by requesting an age certification from the minor’s school. This ensures that minors are engaging in work permitted by state law.
Time Tracking and Recordkeeping
Tracking working hours is crucial to ensuring compliance with labor laws, preventing the exploitation of child laborers. It strikes a balance between work and education, safeguarding a child’s right to receive an education and have a healthy upbringing. Additionally, time tracking helps monitor health and safety conditions, reducing the risk of exposure to hazardous or excessively long work periods.
Maintaining records and timesheets holds employers accountable for their treatment of child laborers. The data generated from time clock software can be a valuable resource for child rights organizations and policymakers advocating for stronger safeguards and regulations.
Payment Laws and Break Requirements
Subminimum wages can be paid to disabled workers and employees under 20 years of age, with rates set by the government and employers, respectively. Utah follows the FLSA to match the federal minimum wage rate, currently set at $7.25 per hour for FLSA-covered employees.
Regarding breaks, Utah adheres to federal provisions but with a notable deviation. Minors working for 5 or more hours in a row are entitled to a 30-minute break, a specific requirement for the state.
Banned Occupations and Workplace Notices
Certain occupations are prohibited for minors under 18 due to their risky nature. These include roles such as boiler room operator, excavator, miner, meat processing operator, power-driven machinery operator, and more. Employers must be aware of these restrictions to ensure the safety of young workers.
Employers hiring minors must complete new hire paperwork, provide written documentation of company policies, and be responsible for monitoring and remitting employment taxes for each employed minor.
Sanctions for Violations
Violating employment laws for minors in Utah can result in fines. Employers who hire minors for prohibited occupations or fail to pay them the required wages according to state law may face a fine of $500 for each violation.
In conclusion, understanding and adhering to these regulations are crucial for employers in Utah to ensure the well-being and fair treatment of minors in the workforce. It not only protects young workers but also contributes to the overall development and prospects of child laborers.