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S 1367

An Act to prevent heat-related illness in public sector outdoor workers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Moore and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts bill requiring public sector outdoor workers receive heat illness prevention measures including hydration, rest, and shade access during high-temperature conditions.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 1367

Legislative bill overview

S 1367 establishes heat illness prevention requirements for Massachusetts public sector outdoor workers, likely mandating employer-implemented protections such as hydration breaks, rest periods, shade access, and heat monitoring during high-temperature conditions. The bill addresses occupational safety standards specific to public employees working in outdoor environments where heat exposure poses documented health risks.

Why is this important

Heat-related illness causes significant morbidity and occasional mortality among outdoor workers, particularly during increasingly frequent extreme heat events. Public sector workers—including maintenance staff, landscapers, and construction workers—currently lack comprehensive statewide heat safety standards, making this legislation a potential model for worker protection and establishing enforceable safety baselines.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Municipalities and public agencies may face budget pressures from required heat mitigation infrastructure (shade structures, cooling stations, additional staff for monitoring)
  • Definition and trigger points: Disputes may arise over what temperature thresholds mandate protections and how "heat illness risk" is measured (heat index vs. dry temperature, humidity factors)
  • Scope and coverage: Questions about which workers qualify (seasonal vs. year-round, specific job categories) and whether standards apply equally across all climate zones in Massachusetts

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

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