Bill H.336 aims to strengthen the enforcement of employment laws in Vermont by enabling employees, representative organizations, and whistleblowers to initiate civil actions on behalf of the Commissioner of Labor. It introduces a new chapter to Title 21 of the Vermont Statutes Annotated, defining key terms such as "aggrieved employee," "relator," and "public enforcement action." The bill outlines procedures for these public enforcement actions, including notice requirements to the Commissioner and the distribution of civil penalties. It also grants relators and the Commissioner specific rights in these actions, such as the ability for relators to recover attorney fees and costs if they succeed.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits retaliation against employees participating in public enforcement actions and mandates the establishment of a publicly accessible database to track these actions. It creates the Community Outreach and Workforce Education Special Fund, which will receive a portion of the proceeds from enforcement actions to support outreach and education related to workforce issues. The Commissioner of Labor is also authorized to seek and accept gifts, donations, and grants for this Fund, which will be used to provide grants to labor or nonprofit organizations that assist workers in enforcing their rights. The bill is set to take effect upon passage, aiming to enhance resources for worker support and education while bolstering the enforcement of employment rights.