Washington

Discussion

Washington: Updates to Rules for Minor Employees

Effective July 1, 2026, two new Washington laws impact employers that hire minor workers. HB 1121 expands allowable work hours for 16- and 17-year-olds enrolled in approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, permitting eligible students to work the same number of hours and days during the school year as would otherwise be permitted only during school vacations or holidays, provided they are employed by an approved employer-partner in the CTE program. Also effective July 1, 2026, HB 1644 introduces stricter conditions for student learner variances, increases penalties for violations of youth employment laws, and requires L&I to conduct safety consultations before minors may begin certain types of work-based learning, which may result in additional administrative steps and potential delays before a minor can begin work. Employers should be aware that HB 1644 also increases potential liability exposure for workplace incidents involving minor workers, even in cases where the incident is caused by the student’s own actions. Washington employers that participate in CTE programs or otherwise employ minors should review their youth employment practices for compliance.

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