The bill amends Section 25-3-1 of the General Laws in Chapter 25-3, titled "Work on Holidays and Sundays," by introducing new definitions and clarifications regarding the terms used in the chapter. Notably, it adds a definition for "Economic necessity," which outlines specific circumstances under which continuous operation on Sundays or holidays is deemed necessary for employers. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "Employee" to include casino workers, thereby allowing them to receive overtime pay for working on Sundays and holidays. The term "holidays" is also updated to include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday for state and municipal government offices.
The bill's provisions aim to address the operational needs of various industries while ensuring that employees, particularly those in the casino sector, are compensated fairly for their work during designated holidays. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting a legislative intent to support both economic activity and employee rights in the context of holiday work.