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 implement a heat-related illness and injury prevention plan that includes monitoring employee exposure to heat, providing access to potable water and rest breaks, and ensuring emergency response procedures are in place. 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.

To protect employees, the bill includes provisions against retaliation for exercising their rights, establishing 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, and employees can pursue civil action for relief. The bill also grants the commissioner authority to issue stop-work orders for non-compliance and outlines penalties, including fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 per employee, adjusted every five years based on the consumer price index. Exemptions are provided for amusement parks, certain commercial farms, and emergency services, while ensuring that existing employee protections and collective bargaining rights are not diminished.