Child Labor Division

Gov Signs Child Labor Bill

Gov. Bob Riley signs new child labor reforms into law at the State Capitol following the 2009 Regular Session. From left are Jeff and Debby Miller, Wayne Reeves, former president of the Alabama Retail Assn., Sen. Quinton Ross (sponsor), Gov. Riley, Jim Bennett, Labor Commissioner, Robin Solitro, chief of the Child Labor Division, Brian Gates and Adam Strickland, child labor inspectors.

Part-time or summer jobs can provide teens with great opportunities for learning important life skills and acquiring hands-on experience – while at the same time earning some spending money. Federal and State rules regarding young workers strike a balance between ensuring sufficient time for educational opportunities and allowing appropriate work experiences.

The resources on this web site will help everyone understand what hours and jobs teen can work, and help prevent workplace injuries. Please feel free to contact the Child Labor Office any time you need help.

The Alabama Child Labor Law has Changed

On May 19, 2009, Governor Bob Riley signed into law House Bill 144. The new act reforms Alabama child labor enforcement standards, transferring the permitting process from the public school system to the Department of Labor. In addition, new record keeping requirements and administrative penalties have been added.

Under the new system, work permits are no longer required for each minor employed. In its place, employers are required to obtain a Child Labor Certificate in order to employ minors. A Class I Certificate is required if employing 14 or 15 year olds and a Class II Certificate is required if employing 16 or 17 year olds. Each location of a business employing minors must obtain the proper certificate(s) in order to employ minors. The cost of the Child Labor Certificates are $15 each and shall be renewed annually.

Additional Forms

Additionally, an Eligibility to Work form is required for each 14 or 15 year old minor employed. These forms can be obtained by the minor from their school. The Eligibility to Work form must be kept in the employee’s file.

Record Keeping

Employers must keep on premises a separate file for each employee under 19 years of age. The file shall contain the employee’s name, home address, date of birth, date of hire, proof of age, school of attendance, and time records showing clock in and out times, number of hours worked each day, and break times. The files must be kept for 3 years.

You can download an employee information sheet here.

Posting Requirements

An Alabama Child Labor Law Poster (2009 version or later) is required to be posted in a conspicuous location where employees have access to it.

You can download a poster at no charge here.

Additional Resources

Child Labor Law Pamphlet

Alabama Child Labor Law Statutes

Fire Service Manual

Federal Child Labor Law Information

Contact Information