Minors under the age of 18 have a few less restrictions on the types of jobs they can do under changes announced today by the Maine Department of Labor.
The new rules govern hazardous occupations for minors in nonagricultural employment. Among the changes are easing state restrictions to allow 17-year-olds to drive for work-related businesses, but only under very specific circumstances and conditions.
Teens who are 16 and 17 are no longer prohibited from working alone in a cash-based business. They’re also allowed to perform soldering and welding in certain circumstances.
It’s now OK for 14 and 15-year olds to cook in places like soda fountains, lunch counters and cafeterias.
A new restriction prohibits minors under the age of 18 from working in the marijuana industry.
The changes in Maine are designed to align state rules with federal standards.
