The Illinois Department of Labor wants to remind teenage employees to obtain a work permit, in order to legally work in Illinois.  Michael Kleinik is the director of the Illinois Department of Labor, and he says that child labor laws are meant to keep teens safe and ensure that work does not interfere with their schooling.  14 and 15-year-olds who are seeking employment must obtain a letter of intent to hire, from a prospective employer, which should describe the type of work and the expected hours.  The teen must also have their school administrator review the letter, in order to determine whether or not a work permit should be issued.  Those who are under 16 can work up to 3 hours per school day and a maximum of 24 hours per week, while school is in session.