Minnesota Child Labor in Agriculture & Farming
Child labor laws on Minnesota and Federal levels have special provisions that apply to minors working in the agricultural industry, including working as farm hands, harvesting fruit or vegetables, etc. In many states, agricultural child labor laws focus on safety and tend to be less restrictive in terms of working hours than general child labor regulations.
In most cases, agricultural child labor laws do not apply to children working on their family's farm. Many traditionally agricultural states have less restrictive child labor laws in this area.
Minnesota Agricultural Child Labor Age Restrictions
According to Minnesota state law, the minimum age at which a minor may work in agriculture during school hours is 16. The minimum age at which a minor may work in agriculture outside of school hours is 12.Minor Employment Certificate Requirements in Minnesota
An employment certificate is required by Minnesota state law for minors working in agriculture under the age of 16 for work during school hours. Age certification is required for minors working in agriculture who are under the age of 18.Minnesota Agricultural Child Labor Restrictions on Working Hours
Maximum Working Hours for Minors Under 16
Exempt
Minnesota does not specify any limitations on the number of days per week that can be worked by minors under 16 who are engaged in agricultural work.
Nightwork Regulations for Minors Under 16
Nightwork is prohibited for minors under age 16 during the following time windows: 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Prohibited Hazardous Agricultural Occupations for Minors
Minnesota specifies a few hazardous occupations for employees under age 18, and for workers under 16 specifies several including, by reference, the Federal list of hazardous occupations.
Other Minnesota Child Labor Laws
In addition to laws specifically regulating minors employed in the agricultural industry, Minnesota law has a variety of regulations that cover child labor in general. To learn more, see Minnesota child labor laws.
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