By Bob Katzen

Would establish a 120-hour training period for new employees under the age of 18 who work 20 hours or less per week and require a work permit. During this initial training period with a new employer, these workers would be paid a minimum wage of at least $10 per hour.

Supporters said this legislation is designed to create a structured pathway to the full state minimum wage, currently $15 per hour, and sets a significantly higher standard for young workers than the federal “Youth Opportunity Wage,” which is currently only $4.25 per hour.

“I sponsored this bill to address the high rates of youth unemployment in Massachusetts by reducing barriers to entry-level positions for our youngest residents,” said co-sponsor Rep. Mike Soter (R-Bellingham). “This training wage provides targeted relief for local small businesses, helping them remain adequately staffed while fostering long-term economic development and stability across the commonwealth.”

Co-sponsor Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading) said that many teenagers are eager to work but sometimes find it challenging to get hired for their first job due to their lack of work experience. “Allowing employers to offer a subminimum training wage for the first 120 hours of employment is a good way for young workers to get their foot in the door and build their work skills so they can show their employer that they deserve to be considered for a permanent position,” continued Jones.