House Bill 2006, sponsored by Behn, aims to enhance workplace safety and accountability in Tennessee by establishing the "Workers' Right to Live Act." This legislation introduces a series of measures to address workplace fatalities, including mandatory reporting of such incidents within 24 hours, investigations into the causes of fatalities, and the imposition of financial penalties on employers found negligent. Specifically, if an employer is determined to be negligent in a workplace fatality, they will face fines starting at $250,000 and may be required to repay state-provided incentives if they have an accountability agreement with the state. The bill also creates a Worker Protection Fund to manage the collected penalties and fines, which will be used to support the enforcement of these new regulations.

Additionally, the bill removes the cap on compensation for workplace fatalities, ensuring that families of deceased workers receive full benefits without limitations. This change is intended to alleviate the financial burden on families who have lost loved ones due to workplace incidents. The legislation emphasizes the moral obligation of the state to protect workers and their families, aiming to create a safer work environment and hold employers accountable for negligence. The act will take effect on July 1, 2026, allowing time for the necessary rules and regulations to be established.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 50-6-209(b)(3), 50-6-209