When the bill goes into effect on July 1, 2026, a student enrolled in an approved career and technical education program will be allowed to work for an employer approved by the program
A bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock to give teenagers the right to work more hours while still in high school will officially become law next year after being signed by the governor on Monday.
House Bill 1121, which received unanimous approval in the House and overwhelming support in the Senate, will allow 16- or 17-year-old minors to work the same number and frequency of hours during the school year as allowed during summer, school vacations, or holidays if they meet certain requirements.
“This bill encourages kids to pursue careers in the trades, which will help fill a need in Washington’s workforce,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “It will also allow kids to get work experience for their future careers and be a motivating force in helping them think creatively and independently. That is a key factor in helping them become a successful part of the workforce after they graduate.”
When the bill goes into effect on July 1, 2026, a student enrolled in an approved career and technical education program will be allowed to 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.
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.
“A lot of teens, including many who don’t plan to go to college, work while they attend school but can only work a very limited number of hours,” said McClintock. “However, many students are ready and capable of working more hours. This legislation will make that possible.”
She continued: “Working more hours gives them additional on-the-job training and education and will benefit them financially. It’s a good alternative for kids with extra time on their hands and increases the number of trade workers for Washington’s future workforce.”
The 105-day 2025 legislative session ends on Sunday, April 27.
Information provided by the Washington State House Republicans, houserepublicans.wa.gov
- Camas School District Legislative Advocacy Committee to host Candidate Forum
Six candidates from two federal and state districts will answer education questions at Discovery High School on Oct. 5. - Opinion: Why lawmakers are going after your pension
Ryan Frost argues lawmakers included public pensions in the income tax law in preparation for lowering the $1 million deduction. - Opinion: Washington has an income tax – why won’t the media call it one?
Cargill argues the media is using supporters’ preferred label “millionaires tax” instead of the legally accurate term “income tax.” - POLL: How do you think higher impact fees for school districts affect housing affordability in Clark County?
Clark County Council raised impact fees for La Center, Hockinson, and Woodland school districts, drawing pushback from the Building Industry Association. - WA high court tosses natural gas measure approved by voters
The WA Supreme Court struck down I-2066 in a 6-3 ruling, finding it covered four distinct subjects in violation of the single-subject rule.
