Slaughter-Backed Legislation Allowing Remote Employment Applications for Minors Becomes Law

CHICAGO – To help working families and youth struggling financially during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, recently supported a new state law that allows minors to apply for and receive employment certificates online.

“As the economy begins to reopen and heal from the damage inflicted by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have to make sure that we continue to mobilize workers here in Illinois,” said Slaughter. “This new law streamlines the process for 14 and 15-year-olds to get a work permit, benefiting both prospective workers and employers, and I am glad to see it signed into law.” 

The Slaughter-backed Senate Bill 696 passed both chambers of the General Assembly without opposition and was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Continuing an emergency rule put in place during the pandemic, this legislation creates a permanent remote option for granting certificates for minors to enter the workforce.

“A first job is an opportunity to expose someone to life skills and experiences they can’t receive anywhere else,” said Slaughter. “Whether it’s to save money for college, earn cash or pursue work that interests them, this measure makes it easier for our youth to chart their own path forward.”