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Bill > S2320


RI S2320

RI S2320
Requires employers to protect employees from extreme temperatures through rest breaks, PPE, training, and equipment, and mandates quarterly supervisor training, to recognize and mitigate heat- and cold-related risks.


summary

Introduced
01/23/2026
In Committee
01/23/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This act would require employers to protect employees from extreme temperatures through rest breaks, PPE, training, and equipment, and mandate training, to recognize and mitigate heat- and cold-related risks. The act would require the department of health to establish and implement a training program. This act would take effect on January 1, 2027.

AI Summary

This bill requires employers to protect their employees from extreme temperatures, defined as 90°F or above, or 32°F or below, by implementing plans that include paid rest breaks, access to shade, warming or cooling stations, drinking water, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hats, gloves, winter coats, cooling vests, and sunscreen. Employers must also ensure that heating and cooling equipment is maintained and functional, and provide specific protections for employees working in vehicles, warehouses, or outdoors for more than 60 minutes, including adequate insulation and heating/cooling equipment. Furthermore, supervisors and managers must complete a quarterly online training program provided by the Department of Health to recognize signs of heat and cold-related illnesses and injuries, and employees working in warehouses, vehicles, or outdoors will receive free, quarterly training during work hours covering risk factors, symptoms, available protections, temperature monitoring procedures, and proper PPE usage. The Department of Health is tasked with creating and implementing this online training program, and the bill prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who report issues related to these protections, with the entire act taking effect on January 1, 2027.

Committee Categories

Labor and Employment

Sponsors (9)

Last Action

Introduced, referred to Senate Labor and Gaming (on 01/23/2026)

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