The bill H.239 aims to enhance the rights of temporary State employees in Vermont by allowing long-term temporary employees to engage in collective bargaining. It amends existing laws to ensure that individuals employed in temporary or seasonal roles are entitled to various protections and benefits similar to those of classified State employees. Specifically, the bill introduces provisions that grant these employees whistleblower protections, appropriate pay based on job classification, access to paid and unpaid leave, and health insurance benefits after six months of employment. Additionally, it stipulates that temporary employees cannot be terminated without good cause.

Furthermore, the bill revises the definition of "State employee" to include certain temporary employees who meet specific criteria, such as working more than 1,280 hours per year for two years or those whose employment does not comply with existing temporary employment requirements. It also clarifies the conditions under which temporary employees in the Judiciary Department may be excluded from the definition of "employee." The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3-331, 3-902, 3-1011