(1) It is the policy of this state to foster the economic, social, and educational development of young people through employment. Work is an integral factor in providing a sense of purpose, direction, and self-esteem necessary to the overall physical and mental health of an individual. In the first part of this century, state and federal laws and regulations were needed to prevent the exploitation of child labor. Unfortunately, such legislation also has tended, on occasion, to limit and curtail opportunities for minors to participate in reasonable work experiences. Young people, especially those who have completed high school or occupational training and no longer are in school, should not be denied employment opportunities because of arbitrary minimum age limits. Work, however, should be coordinated with schooling wherever appropriate. Work and study combined must be developed in the interest of the youth to be trained.

(2) (a) The general assembly hereby finds and determines that certain issues related to youth employment in Colorado have important statewide ramifications for the labor force in this state. In particular, the general assembly declares that the issue of minimum wages, as it relates to youth employment in this state, is a matter of statewide concern.

(b) No unit of local government, whether by acting through its governing body or an initiative, a referendum, or any other process, shall enact any jurisdiction-wide law or ordinance with respect to the minimum wages earned by young people unless otherwise specifically authorized to do so by this article; except that a unit of local government may enact such provisions with respect to its own employees.