The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 6907 seeks to regulate the use of quotas in warehouse distribution centers, with an effective date of October 1, 2025. The bill introduces new legal language that defines key terms such as "employee," "employer," "quota," and "warehouse distribution center." It mandates that employers provide written descriptions of quotas to employees, including potential consequences for not meeting them, and requires notification of any changes to quotas within two business days. The bill also prohibits quotas that disrupt meal periods, bathroom use, or that are based solely on employee rankings. Employers must maintain accurate records of employee work speed data and quota descriptions for three years, and employees have the right to request this information.
Furthermore, the bill enhances protections for warehouse workers by allowing them to file civil actions in the Superior Court for damages, civil penalties, and equitable relief, with the possibility of recovering attorney's fees. Employers found in violation of the bill may incur escalating civil penalties of $1,000 for the first violation, $2,000 for the second, and $3,000 for subsequent violations. Starting July 1, 2026, the Workers' Compensation Commission will monitor injury rates in warehouse distribution centers, and if an employer's injury rate exceeds a specified threshold, the Labor Commissioner will investigate potential violations. The legislation aims to improve working conditions and accountability within the warehouse distribution sector.