Virginia Child Labor in Entertainment & Performing Arts
Child labor laws on Virginia and Federal levels have special provisions that apply to underage performers in the entertainment industry such as child actors, models, singers, etc. Due to the nature of the work and the established need for child performers, entertainment industry child labor laws tend to be less strict than general child labor regulations.
Regulation of child labor in the entertainment industry may include specification of whether or not employment certificates are required, mandatory consent from a parent or guardian, restricions on the type of work that can be done, and more.
Virginia's Child Labor Laws for Entertainment & Performing Arts
Under state law, a Virginia work permit is required for minors to be employed in the entertainment industry. Work permits are required for minors under the age of 16 for a theater or other public place where a performance, concert, commercial presentation or entertainment is to take place. No such permit is required for any nonprofit dance, or music recital or noncommercial television or radio broadcast. Non-profit schools of performing arts are not required to obtain Theatrical Permits for performances related to classes.
Child labor provisions do not apply to children employed as actors or performers in motion pictures, theatrical, radio, or television productions.
To obtain a permit, a Permission for Employment form must be completed by the youth's parent, guardian, or custodian and signed before a Notary Public and an Intent to Employ form must be completed by the employer. The youth must also furnish a copy of an acceptable evidence of age document. The employer must retain and certify to the Labor and Employment Law Division the legal age for employment.
Other Virginia Child Labor Laws
In addition to laws specifically regulating minors employed in the entertainment industry, Virginia law has a variety of regulations that cover child labor in general. To learn more, see Virginia child labor laws.
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