'Cruel’ | Florida Senate bill bans local protections for workers against extreme heat

The Florida Senate passed a bill on Friday banning its cities and counties from implementing legislation designed to protect workers from extreme heat including water and shade breaks.

Under the new requirements, set to take effect from 1 July, local agencies may not "mandate or otherwise impose heat exposure requirements on an employer, an employee, a contractor, or a subcontractor” that extend beyond federal law.

Enforcing workplace standards such as mandatory water breaks or scheduled rests in the shade for approximately 23% of Florida’s workforce - around two million outdoor workers - is now prohibited.

Those in favor of the legislation suggest it will create uniform standards across the state of Florida. Those opposing the bill, including labor organizations, describe the legislation as an attack on basic safety and guidance for vulnerable outdoor workers.