Senate Bill 1068 mandates that employers operating full-service pharmacies or major grocery stores in Wisconsin must provide advance notice of permanent business closures, regardless of the number of employees affected. This requirement expands upon existing laws that only apply to larger employers or specific workforce reductions. The bill defines a full-service pharmacy as a licensed retail pharmacy that dispenses prescription medications and employs a licensed pharmacist, while a major grocery store is defined as a retail food establishment occupying at least 15,000 square feet and selling a wide range of food products. Employers must notify affected employees, their collective bargaining representatives, the highest municipal official, and the county board chairperson at least 60 days before the closure. An exception exists if the business is relocating within two miles and offering employment to all affected employees.

Additionally, the bill introduces penalties for non-compliance, including fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per day for failing to provide timely notice. Affected employees may recover wages and benefits for up to 60 days if proper notice is not given. The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is tasked with enforcing these provisions and may also initiate actions to suspend or revoke business licenses for non-compliance. The bill also requires the DWD to report annually on its enforcement activities related to these new requirements.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 106.11, 109.12(1)(a), 109.12, 109.12(2), 109.12(3), 111.322(2m)(a), 111.322