Youth Workgroup Members

Youth workgroup members are eligible to receive compensation, and there is no law that prohibits workgroup participation at any specific age. Agencies should carefully consider limitations on youth participation in workgroups to avoid interference with educational activities such as hours of participation, breaks, the types of activities they may participate in, and whether the responsibilities and time commitment of workgroup membership is appropriate for youth. While youth participating in workgroups are not employees, EQUITY recommends using existing statute regarding limitations on hours for children who work as guidance on maximum hours of participation for youth workgroup members. For youth workgroup members, participation must not exceed the hours of work limitations established in state law for children who work. Regular breaks and meal periods should be provided, including a break at least every three hours (at least 10 minutes) and longer breaks for meals should be provided if an event lasts over 5 hours. Hours of participation are recommended to follow these limitations: Refer to the Labor & Industries website for up-to-date hour limitations for children in Washington State: https://lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/youth-employment/hours-of-work.