Bill > SB00831

This bill introduces comprehensive work scheduling protections for employees in specific industries like retail, food services, hospitality, and long-term healthcare. The legislation applies to employers with 500 or more employees nationally and requires them to provide employees with advance notice of work schedules at least 14 days prior to the first scheduled shift. Employers must obtain a written statement from new employees detailing their availability and desired work hours, and provide a good faith estimate of expected work hours. The bill mandates compensation for schedule changes, such as one hour of additional pay when shifts are added or modified, and establishes rest periods preventing employers from scheduling employees for shifts with less than 11 hours between them. Before hiring new employees, employers must first offer additional shifts to existing employees who want more hours. The law also includes strong enforcement mechanisms, allowing employees, collective bargaining agents, or whistleblowers to file civil actions with potential damages and penalties for violations. Notably, the bill provides special protections for employees in industries known for unpredictable scheduling, aiming to provide more stability and predictability in work hours. The legislation will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving employers time to adjust their scheduling practices to comply with the new requirements.

Labor and Employment

Labor and Public Employees Committee (Joint)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00831&which_year=2025