Bill > H0336

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for employees, representative organizations, and whistleblowers to bring public enforcement actions on behalf of the Vermont Commissioner of Labor to address potential violations of employment laws. The bill defines key terms such as "aggrieved employee" (an employee who has experienced a workplace violation), "relator" (the party bringing the enforcement action), and "representative organization" (a nonprofit or union advocating for employees). Under the new law, a relator can file a public enforcement action in court, seeking penalties and injunctive relief similar to what the Commissioner could pursue. The bill includes detailed procedural requirements, such as submitting a notice to the Commissioner and allowing the Commissioner to investigate or intervene in the action. If successful, the relator can receive a percentage of the recovered penalties (30% if the Commissioner does not intervene, 20% if the Commissioner does), with the remaining funds going to the Department of Labor. Importantly, the bill prohibits retaliation against employees who participate in these enforcement actions and requires the Commissioner to maintain a public database of all such actions. The legislation also creates a Community Outreach and Workforce Education Special Fund, which will receive 25% of the recovered penalties to support worker rights education and assistance programs.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.336