The proposed bill H.263 aims to establish a "right to disconnect" for employees, 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," and "pattern of violation." It specifies that employers may only contact employees during nonworking hours in cases of emergencies or scheduling changes. Additionally, employers are required to create a workplace policy that upholds this right without diminishing employees' rights to compensation or time off.
Furthermore, the bill outlines a mechanism 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.