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Bill

Bill

SB 1034

AN ACT CONCERNING EMPLOYEE EXPOSURE TO THE RISK OF HEAT ILLNESS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mae Flexer

Connecticut bill mandates employers implement heat illness prevention standards including hydration, rest breaks, and emergency protocols for workers in high-temperature conditions.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Labor and Public Employees
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Bill Summary · SB 1034

Legislative bill overview

SB 1034 establishes occupational safety standards requiring employers to implement heat illness prevention measures for employees working in high-temperature environments. The bill sets mandatory protocols for hydration, rest breaks, acclimatization periods, and emergency response procedures to protect workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses.

Why is this important

Heat illness causes thousands of workplace injuries annually and disproportionately affects outdoor workers, construction crews, and agricultural laborers. As climate change increases average temperatures and extreme heat events become more frequent, regulatory protections become increasingly critical for worker safety and reducing medical costs and lost productivity.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Smaller employers may face significant expenses implementing cooling infrastructure, monitoring systems, and additional staffing requirements
  • Definitional clarity: The bill's specific temperature thresholds, work intensity categories, and acclimatization timelines will determine practical applicability and potential disputes over compliance
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Unclear penalties, inspection frequency, and whether enforcement will prioritize education versus penalties could affect adoption rates across industries

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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