Washington Law Bars Employers With Suspended Minor Permits From Public Bids

Tumwater, WA — Employers in Washington state with a suspended minor work permit are prohibited from bidding on public works projects under a recently enacted state law. Employers must hold a minor work permit endorsement on their business license to hire workers younger than 18 and must follow state and federal child labor laws.

Permit Suspensions Under H.B. 1644

Under H.B. 1644, signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson (D) in April 2025, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries must suspend an employer’s minor work permit after a citation for violating a safety and health or child labor rule that resulted in serious harm or death. The permit may also be suspended if the agency issues an order of immediate restraint for workplace conditions, practices, or means and methods of minor work activities. A suspension lasts at least 12 months according to Washington L&I.

Variance Process Requires Consultation

The law requires employers to complete a safety and health consultation before receiving a variance allowing minors to participate in Registered Apprenticeship programs or Career and Technical Education Worksite Learning programs involving otherwise-prohibited duties. The consultation examines tools, equipment, and practices and serves as support for the employer and minor worker rather than an enforcement inspection.

Additional Requirements

Employers in the state remain subject to existing rules that mandate the minor work permit endorsement and compliance with child labor laws. The new provisions add specific consequences for violations that cause serious harm or death and tie permit status directly to eligibility for public works contracts.

according to Safety+Health Magazine.