The proposed bill, known as the Workplace Extreme Temperatures Protection Standards Act, mandates that employers create written plans and training programs to safeguard workers from heat and cold stress when temperatures reach extreme levels—specifically, 80 degrees Fahrenheit and above for heat and 15 degrees Fahrenheit and below for cold. Employers are required to provide necessary protections, including access to fluids and paid rest breaks in temperature-controlled areas, and to develop these plans with input from employees or their representatives. The bill also emphasizes the importance of training employees on recognizing symptoms of heat and cold-related illnesses, acclimatization, and emergency response procedures.

Additionally, the bill prohibits retaliation against employees who exercise their rights under this new provision or report violations. It authorizes the commissioner to establish rules for enforcement and includes a new subparagraph in the existing law to address workplace protections from extreme temperature-related stress. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 281-A:64, 281-A:60
HB1451 text: 281-A:64, 281-A:60