Rep. Stephanie McClintock’s bill to allow teens to work more hours during the school year receives committee approval

Date: Friday, February 14, 2025

Rep. Stephanie McClintock’s bill to expand work hours for teens during the school year moves forward with committee approval.

House Bill 1121 would allow 16-or 17-year-old minors to work as many hours during the school year as they can during summer, school vacations, or holidays if they meet certain requirements

On Friday, the House Labor and Workplace Standards Committee unanimously passed a bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock to give teenagers the right to work more hours while still in high school.

House Bill 1121 would allow 16-or 17-year-old minors to work as many hours during the school year as they can during summer, school vacations, or holidays if they meet certain requirements.

“This would be a great opportunity for many of our high school students,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “Not all kids learn the same. Many teenagers would rather explore trade work and don’t have interest in pursuing a 4-year degree. These work experiences can serve as on-the-job training and preparation for future career opportunities.”

If the bill were to become law, a student would have to be enrolled in an approved career and technical education program and perform the work for an employer approved by the program. A “career and technical education program” refers to a work-based learning program approved by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction or the minor’s school district.

“Students who get more work experience while they’re young can help meet the need we have for more trade workers in Washington,” McClintock added. “Allowing kids to work more hours would also keep them occupied, give them better things to do with their free time, and be a great way to prepare for future employment and adult responsibilities.”

The same allowance of hours must be made for a 16-or 17-year-old enrolled in a bona fide college program, except the minor is not required to work for an approved employer.

“Many teens are ready and prepared to work more hours, which would help our workforce and give these kids valuable on-the-job training and education,” concluded McClintock. “This policy would benefit Washington businesses and teenagers ready to work.”

HB 1121 now waits for a vote from the entire House.

Information provided by Washington State House Republicans, houserepublicans.wa.gov