WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 4852

Prohibits certain employment actions against employees affected by a declared state of emergency.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Benjie Wimberly

Prohibits employers from terminating or demoting workers affected by state-declared emergencies, shielding them from job loss during crisis situations beyond their control.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Labor Committee
#labor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 4852

Legislative bill overview

S 4852 prohibits employers from taking adverse employment actions (such as termination, demotion, or suspension) against employees who are affected by a declared state of emergency. The bill aims to protect workers whose ability to work is impacted by emergencies while those emergencies are officially declared.

Why is this important

During emergencies—whether natural disasters, public health crises, or other disasters—workers may become unable to report to work through no fault of their own. This bill would prevent employers from punishing employees for circumstances beyond their control, potentially reducing economic hardship for affected workers and their families during critical periods.

Potential points of contention

  • Business operational burden: Employers may argue they lack clarity on how to maintain operations, meet contractual obligations, or manage staffing during emergencies without being able to take employment actions, potentially creating hardship for small businesses
  • Definition scope: The bill's language around what constitutes "affected by" an emergency and which employment actions are prohibited may be ambiguous, creating compliance uncertainty for employers
  • Duration and limits: It's unclear how long protections extend post-emergency or whether there are circumstances where employers can take action, raising concerns about indefinite liability or potential abuse by employees

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

Sign in to ask a question.