Assembly Bill 1105 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 with specific thresholds of employee impact. The bill defines a full-service pharmacy as a retail pharmacy that dispenses prescription medications and employs a licensed pharmacist, while a major grocery store is characterized 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 official of the municipality, and the county board chairperson at least 60 days before the closure.

In addition to the notification requirements, 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 are entitled to recover pay and benefits for a recovery period not exceeding 60 days if proper notice is not given. The bill also allows for the suspension or revocation of business licenses and tax registrations for employers who fail to comply with the notification requirements. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance protections for employees facing job loss due to business closures in the pharmacy and grocery sectors.

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