Employment of a minor, sixteen years of age or older, who is enrolled in, or who has completed an accredited nautical science training program, upon a vessel documented or registered under the laws of the United States, is lawful. The written permission of either the father or mother of the minor, who has custody of the minor, otherwise, the written permission of the minor's tutor or other person having custody of him, shall be required before the minor may be so employed.
La. R.S. § 23:171