COLUMBUS – State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) today announced the passage of Senate Bill 251 by the Ohio Senate, which would allow 14 and 15-year-olds to work until 9:00 p.m. year-round in Ohio with their parent’s consent.
“Thirteen states currently allow youth under the age of 16 to work until 9:00 p.m. year-round, earning a good wage while providing local employers with consistent staff and helping small businesses keep their doors open,” said Schaffer.
Currently, federal and state law prohibits 14-15-year-olds to work past 9:00 p.m. during the summer, and past 7:00 p.m. during the school year. Under the bill, minors who wish to work until 9:00 p.m. during the school year must have the approval of a parent or legal guardian.
“This legislation reinforces the guardrails protecting 14 and 15-year-olds already in code,” Schaffer explained. “Ohio law says 14 and 15-year-olds may not work between 9:00 pm and 7:00 am, and no more than 3 hours a day and 18 hours a week while school is in session. These guardrails do not change under Senate Bill 251.”
