Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB583

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/31/23
• Refer: 10/31/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The rights of employees to request and receive work schedule changes; predictable work schedules for retail, food service, and cleaning employees; granting rule-making authority; and providing a penalty. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of AB583 is expected to significantly reshape existing employment practices by institutionalizing employees' rights to a predictable work schedule. Employers must provide written notice of schedules and any changes, with a minimum notice period of 14 days for schedule modifications. Furthermore, if changes occur without adequate notice, employees may receive compensation equal to one hour of work. This provision aims to alleviate the unpredictability that often characterizes service industry employment.

Summary

Assembly Bill 583 introduces new regulations aimed at providing employees in the retail, food service, and cleaning industries with predictable work schedules. The bill mandates that employers, defined as those with at least 15 employees, must allow employees to request changes to their schedules under certain conditions and negotiate these requests in good faith. If a request is denied, employers are required to inform employees of the reason, provided it aligns with a bona fide business reason as defined in the bill.

Contention

While supporters of AB583 argue that it promotes fairness and transparency in labor practices, opponents voice concerns about the associated administrative burden on employers. There are fears that the requirements may lead to increased operational costs, especially for small businesses that may struggle to adapt to the new regulations. The debate centers on balancing the need for employee rights and protections against the potential economic implications for employers, especially amid ongoing economic challenges.