STATE:

Why NFIB

Take Action

Get Support

Stay Informed

Podcast Podcast

Careers Careers

Join Now

Home / News /

Legislation Would Add More Red Tape to Hire Students

May 30, 2024 Last Edit: June 5, 2025

Legislation Would Add More Red Tape to Hire Students

NFIB has expressed concerns regarding legislation that would change the process by which young people under 18 receive a work permit in order to be employed. House Labor Committee heard testimony on May 16, 2024, on House Bill 5594 sponsored by Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-80). Instead of going through the student’s school district to receive a work permit, the bill moves responsibility for issuing and revoking work permits to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). A minor would have to register with LEO before starting work in an occupation regulated by the Youth Employment Standards Act, and employers would have to be authorized by LEO and in compliance with the act. After termination of employment, a minor’s employer would have to directly notify LEO. NFIB is concerned by the potential delay in getting young people a permit and the extra regulatory burden on employers. Not to mention the expansion of state government and the cost to taxpayers in order to hire more state workers. Especially troubling is the creation of a database of all the businesses employing young workers that will be both within the department and available to the public. Unfortunately, the administration has made it clear that it wishes to increase inspections, enforcement, and fines of youth labor laws. There is concern that this could have a chilling effect on youth employment – which would especially be harmful to young people who wish to gain crucial job experience that will help them flourish. NFIB is continuing to work with legislators and other stakeholders to either fix or stop this legislation.

Topics:

Taxes

State:

Michigan

Check it out!

Until 05/11/2024

Lorem ipsum dolor site amet

Learn More

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Learn More

July 29, 2026

Michigan in “Legislative Limbo” as Premises Liability Concerns Continue for Small Businesses

ATRA’s 2026 Legislative HeatCheck report highlights House Bill 4582.

July 27, 2026

Shop Small During New Mexico’s Back-to-School Tax-Free Holiday

Certain back-to-school items will be exempt from sales tax from Friday, July 31-Sunday, August 2

July 27, 2026

Podcast: State Tax Hikes on the Ballot This Year

Experts on the Small Business Rundown discuss proposed state tax increases and the impact higher taxes would have on small businesses across the nation.

July 27, 2026

Michigan Small Business Owner Featured on NFIB Podcast

NFIB member Nancy Marr appeared on NFIB’s podcast episode on BOI requirements.

Legislation Would Add More Red Tape to Hire Students

Check it out!

Related Articles