House Bill 987 establishes the Department of Labor as a new state department, with the Secretary of Labor appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. The Secretary is granted the authority to create divisions, adopt necessary rules, and enforce labor laws, including the state minimum wage. The bill amends existing statutes to reflect these changes, revising employee notification requirements regarding their rights and designating the Department of Labor as the state Agency for Workforce Innovation. It also introduces new definitions and protections for employees, including a rebuttable presumption of retaliation against employees who exercise their rights, and outlines the process for filing complaints and conducting investigations.

The bill enhances the enforcement of labor laws by granting the Department of Labor the authority to initiate investigations and requiring employers to post notices during investigations. It streamlines the process for addressing labor violations by removing provisions that allowed individuals to bring civil actions without prior notice. Additionally, it introduces penalties for employers who retaliate against employees and establishes provisions for reinstatement, back pay, and administrative penalties for wage violations. The bill also creates a Community Advisory Board to review labor practices and recommend changes, with the Secretary required to submit an annual report on equity in labor practices. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 987 Filed: 448.109, 448.110