This bill proposes updates to current statutes by introducing new provisions aimed at enhancing employee protections against heat illness and establishing family and medical leave insurance benefits. Specifically, it mandates the Industrial Commission of Arizona to adopt standards for industries such as agriculture, construction, and landscaping to safeguard employees from heat-related illnesses, requiring employers to provide access to potable water, shade, and rest periods when temperatures exceed ninety degrees Fahrenheit. The bill also introduces high-heat procedures, emergency response protocols, and training requirements for employees and supervisors to ensure safety in high-temperature environments.

Additionally, the bill creates a new article on family and medical leave insurance, effective January 1, 2030, detailing eligibility criteria, maximum leave duration, and benefit calculations based on average weekly wages. It requires employers to provide a minimum of twelve weeks of leave and outlines payroll contributions to fund the program. The bill enhances employee protections by allowing intermittent leave, maintaining health benefits during leave, and prohibiting retaliation against employees exercising their rights. It also mandates public education campaigns and establishes a system for appeals regarding benefit denials, thereby strengthening the framework for family and medical leave insurance in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 23-207, 23-405, 23-1302, 23-1501, 23-371, 23-605, 23-363, 23-622, 23-382.12, 23-362, 13-4439, 23-1041, 23-382.01, 23-382.02, 23-382.03, 23-382.04, 23-382.15, 23-382.05, 23-382.06, 23-382.07, 23-382.08, 23-373, 23-382.09, 23-382.10, 23-382.11, 23-382.13, 23-382.14, 23-382.17, 23-382.16, 23-382.18, 23-410, 23-411, 23-412, 21-236, 16-1012, 26-167, 26-168, 23-202, 23-203, 8-420