COLUMBUS, OH – April 10, 2025 — The Ohio Senate has approved two measures sponsored by Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) aimed at providing greater work flexibility for 14- and 15-year-olds across the state.
The Senate passed Senate Concurrent Resolution 3, which urges Congress to amend the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) to allow minors aged 14 and 15 to work until 9:00 p.m. during the school year. In addition, lawmakers approved Senate Bill 50, which aligns state law by permitting minors in that age group to work from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. year-round in Ohio.
“These bills encourage kids to develop strong work ethics and provide much-needed staffing support for employers across Ohio,” said Senator Schaffer. “Importantly, the legislation keeps existing protections in place while allowing greater opportunity for young workers.”
Current Ohio law limits minors under 16 from working between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and to no more than three hours on school days. Under Senate Bill 50, those restrictions remain, but with added flexibility: a minor may work until 9:00 p.m. during the school year with written consent from both a parent or guardian and a school administrator.
The proposed changes bring Ohio closer in line with federal standards. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 13 states already permit youth under 16 to work until at least 9:00 p.m. year-round in most non-agricultural jobs.
The legislation has received backing from several business and advocacy groups, including the Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, NFIB Ohio, Americans for Prosperity – Ohio, and the Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association. Both proposals are also supported by the Ohio Restaurant and Hospitality Alliance.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 3 and Senate Bill 50 now move to the Ohio House of Representatives for further debate and potential approval.
