To the extent necessary to prevent curtailment of opportunities of employment, the commissioner may by regulations or orders provide for the employment at wages lower than the minimum wage prescribed in AS 23.10.050 - 23.10.150 of
(1) an individual whose earning capacity is impaired by physical or mental deficiency, age, or injury, at the wages and subject to the restrictions and for the period of time that are fixed by the commissioner; and
(2) an apprentice at the wages that are approved by the commissioner; or
(3) a learner at the wages and subject to the restrictions and for the periods of time that are fixed by the commissioner.