I. Upon application by a participating employer or proper school authority, the labor commissioner may establish a sub-minimum wage rate, or no rate, for high school or post secondary students working for practical experience, if circumstances warrant. Guidelines shall be established by the labor commissioner to determine whether an employer-employee relationship exists between participating parties for such work in respect to existing labor laws. No such student shall be allowed to replace an existing worker or a laid-off worker.
II. Upon application by a proper post-secondary organization or rehabilitation facility as defined by and in a manner established by the labor commissioner, the commissioner may establish a practical experience/training program at a sub-minimum wage rate or no wage rate for individuals with disabilities. If such program is established, the commissioner shall establish guidelines to determine whether an employer-employee relationship exits between the parties for work performed through the program that is consistent with state and federal law. No such individual with disabilities, while in the program, shall be allowed to replace an existing worker or a laid-off worker.