Legislation on extreme temperatures may result in added responsibilities for Rhode Island employers. Two versions of this legislation went before the House Committee on Labor for consideration.

Workplace extreme temperature bills will apply to businesses with workers indoors, outdoors, and even in vehicles. One of the bills considers anything below 32 degrees as “extreme” cold and would trigger the new law, requiring employers to provide workers with breaks and special equipment. The average temperature in Providence during the winter months is 29 degrees. The proposals mandate business owners provide items like jackets, hats, cooling vests, and even sunscreen for their workers, adding to the already high cost of doing business in Rhode Island.

NFIB submitted opposition testimony saying employers already work with their employees during warm and cold days. The state does not need to implement another one-size-fits-all labor mandate that will expose employers to costly fines and legal action.

Bills where NFIB provided testimony:

Opposed a bill that would mandate workers have a right of first refusal to purchase the owner’s business if it is sold. That means an employer must wait 30 days to sell the building while workers decide.

Opposed a single payer healthcare bill imposing government-run health insurance.

Opposed a bill banning the sale of certain computers, refrigeration units, heating systems, etc. in Rhode Island.