House Bill 1177 amends various sections of Florida Statutes to improve labor regulations, particularly for employee organizations and outdoor workers. The bill expands the rights of all certified employee organizations to deduct dues and assessments from employee salaries, eliminating previous limitations. It also streamlines the recertification process for certain employee organizations by removing the requirement for them to petition for recertification. A significant addition is the mandate for employers in outdoor industries to implement a heat exposure safety program, which includes training on heat illness prevention and specific provisions for providing drinking water and shade to employees.

In addition to enhancing protections for outdoor workers, the bill requires training on heat illness prevention for all outdoor employees and their supervisors, covering essential topics such as environmental risk factors and hydration. Training materials must be available in multiple languages to accommodate all employees. The bill also introduces provisions for independent contractors, requiring those who facilitate services for at least 50 workers to contribute to qualified benefit providers for employee benefits, including health insurance and paid time off. It establishes criteria for these benefit providers and outlines compliance monitoring. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1177 Filed: 447.303, 447.207, 542.335