Michigan governor extends executive order suspending youth work permit application requirements

LANSING, Mich. – On Friday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-116, which extends her previous Executive Order 2020-79, which lifts certain requirements of the application process for young Michiganders to obtain a work permit.

“Young people throughout Michigan are a vital part of our workforce and economy. As summer begins, it is important to ensure they can still have the opportunity to work with the proper credentials and permits,” said Whitmer. “This extension comes at an opportune time, as regions of our state continue to safely reopen. We must all continue to be smart in the workplace and in our daily lives to protect Michiganders from the spread of COVID-19.”

Young Michiganders constitute an important part of the summer workforce, especially because the COVID-19 pandemic requires workers stay home when experiencing symptoms or because they are part of a vulnerable population, the governor’s office noted.

Certain aspects of the Youth Employment Standards Act, such as the requirement to use certain kinds of colored paper, require in-person interactions that could spread COVID-19. The executive order temporarily suspends these requirements.

The executive order is effective immediately and extends until July 3.

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