SMALL BUSINESS TO RHODE ISLAND LAWMAKERS: INDOCTRINATION IS NOT THE WAY TO GO

PROVIDENCE (April 1, 2015). The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) opposes legislation that would require young teens to take a course in workers’ rights prior to obtaining a work permit. A bill before the Senate Labor Committee would mandate the course given by the state Department of Labor. 

“Some lawmakers seem to think that mandating the indoctrination of 14-year olds who are looking for work will be beneficial to the state,” said Bill Vernon, Rhode Island State Director of NFIB. “This ploy to mandate a course in workers’ rights for those entering the work force makes it more difficult to do business and give an opportunity to a young person and for that young person to find part-time employment all in a state that everyone agrees must concentrate on job creation, not additional regulation.” 

“Requiring teenagers seeking employment to jump through bureaucratic hurdles prior to even entering the workplace is not the message Rhode Island should be sending. If we are going to force ambitious, job-seeking young people to take a course, it should focus on entrepreneurship and positive work habits like showing up on time, dressing properly, working with others and budgeting pay checks. Tips on improving work ethic would certainly be more helpful for both young teens and employers alike,”   Vernon concluded.

For more information visit www.NFIB.com