No, child labor under 14 is not legal in West Virginia under state or federal law. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) prohibits minors under 14 from most employment, with exceptions limited to specific agricultural or family-owned businesses. West Virginia’s Division of Labor enforces these rules, aligning with 2026 federal updates tightening protections for minors.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in West Virginia
- FLSA Compliance: The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) bars minors under 14 from non-agricultural employment, with narrow exemptions for babysitting, acting, or delivering newspapers. West Virginia mirrors these restrictions, requiring employers to verify age documentation.
- State Oversight: The West Virginia Division of Labor conducts unannounced inspections to enforce child labor laws, including penalties for violations. Recent 2026 guidance emphasizes stricter penalties for employers exploiting minors in hazardous occupations.
- Agricultural Exceptions: Minors under 14 may work in agriculture on family farms or with parental consent, but non-family agricultural labor remains prohibited under state law unless exempted by federal regulations.