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Bill

HB 446

Relating to workplace heat illness prevention, including the creation of a heat illness prevention advisory board; imposing administrative penalties; providing a private cause of action.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by John Bryant and 9 co-sponsors

Texas bill establishes workplace heat illness prevention standards, advisory oversight, and employer penalties while enabling employees to sue for violations.

Left pending in subcommittee
#civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #heatillnesspreventionadvisoryboard(vy6gj) #health--general(i0385) #health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #labor--health&safety(i0490) #staffdevelopment&training(s0317) #safety(i0740) #stateagencies #boards&commissions--newlyproposed(i0773) #workforcecommission #texas(v0470)
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Bill Summary · HB 446

Legislative bill overview

HB 446 establishes mandatory workplace heat illness prevention standards in Texas, creates an advisory board to develop recommendations, and creates enforcement mechanisms including administrative penalties and private lawsuits. The bill aims to protect workers in high-heat environments through proactive safety requirements and accountability measures.

Why is this important

Texas has significant outdoor and industrial sectors where workers face extreme heat exposure, particularly during summer months. Heat-related illnesses can be fatal and costly; this bill directly addresses worker safety in one of the nation's hottest states while potentially impacting business operations and liability exposure.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Employers may face significant expenses implementing cooling measures, hydration systems, mandatory breaks, and training programs, with concerns about feasibility for small businesses
  • Private cause of action scope: Allowing workers to sue directly creates broader liability than administrative penalties alone, potentially leading to litigation costs and settlements
  • Regulatory definitions: Disagreement may arise over what constitutes "heat illness," triggering conditions, and whether standards are one-size-fits-all or industry-specific

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

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