By: Cristina N. Hyde, J.D.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the youth labor force “grows sharply between April and July each year.”  Although summer may look a little different this year as small businesses struggle to implement new operating procedures amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it is likely that New Jersey’s youth will continue to look for, and take, summer jobs.

With this in mind, pending legislation seeks to encourage businesses to employ our teens.  Senate Bill No. 718, which is currently working its way to Governor Murphy’s desk, addresses concerns about the adverse employment effects on unskilled workers associated with the mandated wage hike established by the enactment of New Jersey’s 2019 Minimum Wage Law. P.L. 2019, c.32 (C.34:11-56a39 et al.)

Although teenagers would not be exempt from New Jersey’s increases to minimum wage, S718 allows employers who hire individuals under 18 to offset the cost by applying for refundable tax credits.  Those credits would be equal to the high wages and payroll taxes associated with hiring the teen.

Campanella Law Office will continue to monitor Senate Bill No. 718 and provide periodic updates as necessary.  Meanwhile, if you have any questions regarding your small business and employment opportunities for our youth, please Contact Us.