Pupils: work permits: online database.

Assembly Member Ahrens proposes establishing a statewide online database for student work permits through legislation that would create the Youth Employment System (YES) within California's Department of Education. The database would centralize records of all work permits issued to pupils under age 18.

The Department of Education would develop and launch YES by December 31, 2029, with mandatory usage beginning in the 2030-31 school year. The system would serve two primary functions: allowing authorized school officials to upload work permits and enabling designated inspectors to access those permit records. Under current law, educational officers issue work permits upon receiving written requests from parents or guardians, and employers must obtain these permits before hiring minors. The permits expire shortly after each new school year begins.

The database would apply to all active work permits at the start of implementation as well as any permits issued thereafter. While the bill creates new recordkeeping requirements, it maintains existing processes for issuing permits and conducting compliance inspections. The legislation does not allocate additional funding, indicating implementation would occur within the Department of Education's existing budget.