Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Federal legislation that governs minimum wage, overtime pay, and distinguishes between paid and unpaid internships through the 'primary beneficiary test'. Critical for determining internship compensation requirements.

Department of Labor Guidelines: Federal guidelines providing a six-factor test for determining the legality of unpaid internships, including requirements for educational benefit and training program structures.

Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII): Federal anti-discrimination law that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in intern selection and treatment.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Federal law requiring reasonable accommodations for disabled individuals and preventing discrimination, applicable to both intern selection and workplace arrangements.

State-Specific Labor Laws: Various state-level regulations governing internships, including state-specific minimum wage requirements and working hour restrictions.

Immigration Laws: Federal regulations governing visa requirements and work authorization for international student interns.

Workers' Compensation Laws: State-specific laws determining insurance requirements and coverage obligations for interns in case of workplace injuries.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Federal law protecting student educational records, particularly relevant for internships connected to educational institutions.

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): Federal workplace safety regulations defining training obligations and safety requirements applicable to intern working conditions.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Regulations: Federal tax guidelines governing the taxation of internship compensation and the classification of interns versus employees.