The proposed bill establishes an Occupational Heat-Related Illness and Injury Prevention Program within the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD) and mandates the creation of a heat stress standard by June 1, 2025. This standard requires employers to develop and maintain a heat-related illness and injury prevention plan that includes monitoring employee exposure to heat, providing access to potable water, rest breaks, and emergency response procedures. The plan must involve employee participation and be available in both English and the primary language of each employee. Additionally, the bill outlines specific training requirements for employees and supervisors regarding heat-related illnesses and mandates record-keeping related to heat-related incidents.

The bill also includes protections against retaliation for employees exercising their rights under this act, with a rebuttable presumption of unlawful retaliation if adverse actions occur within 90 days of an employee asserting their rights. Employers found in violation may face administrative penalties, with fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per employee for violations. Certain operations, such as amusement parks and emergency services, are exempt from the requirements. The bill emphasizes that it does not diminish existing employee protections or collective bargaining rights and ensures that existing agreements are honored until their expiration.