No. Child labor under 14 is prohibited in Montana under both state and federal law, with strict exceptions for agricultural work or parental employment. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry enforces these rules, aligning with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and recent 2026 federal compliance shifts tightening oversight.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in Montana
- Age Restrictions: Minors under 14 cannot be employed in non-agricultural jobs, per Montana Code Annotated § 41-2-303. Exceptions include babysitting, delivering newspapers, or working for parents in family-owned enterprises.
- Agricultural Exemptions: Limited agricultural work is permitted for children 12–13 with parental consent, but hazardous tasks (e.g., operating heavy machinery) are banned under federal Hazardous Occupations Orders.
- Work Permits: Employers must verify age via birth certificates or school records, and minors aged 14–15 require state-issued work permits, per Montana Department of Labor guidelines.
Violations trigger penalties under Montana’s Wage and Hour Unit, including fines up to $1,000 per infraction. The state’s 2026 compliance framework further mandates electronic record-keeping for child labor documentation, aligning with DOL’s updated enforcement priorities. Employers must cross-reference federal and state rules to avoid liability.