No, child labor under age 14 is not legal in Michigan under state and federal law. Exceptions exist only for limited agricultural work with parental consent and strict oversight by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), which enforces the state’s 2026 updates aligning with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Violations trigger penalties up to $15,000 per minor under the Michigan Wage and Hour Division.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Michigan
- Parental Consent Required: Employers must obtain written permission from a parent or guardian before minors under 14 may work in exempt agricultural roles, per Michigan’s 2026 rule harmonization with federal standards.
- Strict Hour Restrictions: Minors under 14 are prohibited from working during school hours, before 7:00 a.m., or after 7:00 p.m. (9:00 p.m. June 1–Labor Day), with daily limits capped at 3 hours on school days.
- Permit System: Employers must secure a youth employment permit from the Michigan LEO for any work involving minors under 14, even in exempt sectors, with permits reviewed for compliance with state and federal child labor provisions.