The proposed bill H.263 aims to establish a "right to disconnect" for employees in Vermont, allowing them to ignore communications from their employers during nonworking hours. The bill introduces new legal language that defines key terms such as "emergency," "nonworking hours," "pattern of violation," and "right to disconnect." It specifies that employees have the right to disconnect from employer communications outside their assigned work hours, except in cases of emergencies or scheduling changes. Employers are required to create a workplace policy that upholds this right without diminishing employees' compensation or time-off rights.

Additionally, the bill outlines a process for employees to file complaints regarding violations of this right with the Commissioner of Labor, who can impose administrative penalties on employers found in violation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.