For those who employ workers under age 18, the State of Michigan is changing its process for minor work permits. The changes are being made to streamline the approval process for work permits and provide immediate access regarding work permit status to employers and schools.

What changes will be in effect on October 2?

Schools will no longer be providing work permit paperwork and will not be a part of the work permit approval process. While schools may still suspend an existing work permit based on defined circumstances (ex. poor school attendance), they will no longer be a standard part of the approval process for minor work permits.

The work permit process will begin with a minor registering on the Michigan Youth Employment Portal (YEPP). Employers will then complete information, and finally the State will approve the permit if the hours and job duties are compliant with the Michigan Youth Employment Standards Act and Department of Labor rules.

Businesses employing minors must register on the Youth Employment Portal (YEPP) to be able to access this new process. While the State hoped to permit early registration, the website is not yet available for employers to register early. Please see Michigan.gov/leo regarding registration.

Does this new process affect minors working under approved work permits?

Minors working under a permit approved prior to October 2, 2026, can continue working under that permit. They do not need to obtain a new permit.

Employers will not be required to process a new permit through YEPP unless the minor’s hours or job duties change in a material way or the employer is requesting a deviation in hours (available for minors age 16-17 only).

If a minor changes jobs or employers, the minor would then be required to apply through YEPP for a new work permit.

How are parents involved in the process?

Parent approval is not required for the work permit application unless an employer is requesting a deviation in hours.

If a school suspends a work permit, how will employers be notified?

Per the State of Michigan, the employer and the minor would be notified of any suspension by email.

Does this new procedure change any laws regarding minor employment?

Other than the parties required to approve a work permit, the laws for employing minors will not change. There have been no changes in:

• Requirements for minors to have an approved permit prior to beginning work
• Limits on start and end times minors may work
• Limits on total hours worked in a day/week or how many days in a row a minor may work
• Requirements for supervision of minors
• Prohibition on dangerous work
• Prohibitions/limitations regarding minors working in establishments selling alcohol

The Michigan department of Labor and Economic opportunity (LEO) conducted an informational seminar on the work permit changes. You can find a recording of the seminar here: youtube.com/watch?v=qtgthYJMK5Q&feature=youtu.be.

For more information visit, https://www.michigan.gov/leo.