Prohibiting discharge of volunteer firefighters or volunteer emergency medical technicians from other employment.
Impact
If enacted, HB182 would impact existing labor laws in New Hampshire by creating protections specifically for volunteers who serve in emergency response roles. This would mean that employers must recognize and accommodate the responsibilities of their employees who are actively serving as volunteer firefighters or EMTs, without fear of losing their employment status over actions taken in the scope of their volunteer duties. The bill also allows for the reinstatement of any employee wrongfully terminated under these provisions, fostering greater job security for individuals who serve their communities through volunteer emergency services.
Summary
House Bill 182 (HB182) proposes to protect volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians from being discharged or disciplined by their employers due to their involvement in emergency responses. The bill seeks to amend existing workplace discrimination laws by adding a specific provision that safeguards these individuals when they cannot report for work because they are engaged in responding to an emergency situation. The newly proposed section establishes a clear expectation that employees responding to emergencies will not be penalized for failing to attend their scheduled jobs, provided they inform their employers accordingly.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB182 appears to be generally supportive among community members and emergency services organizations. Proponents argue that the bill acknowledges and legitimizes the critical role of volunteers in emergency situations, while providing them necessary protections in their employment. However, there may be a level of concern among some employers regarding potential operational challenges; they might worry about the implications of having staff unavailable due to emergency responses, which could create tension between maintaining adequate workforce levels and supporting community service.
Contention
While the bill has been framed as a protective measure for essential emergency workers, some critics might voice concerns about the balance between community service and workplace commitments. Discussions could arise regarding the potential for misuse of the bill's provisions, where employees could take undue advantage of the protections during non-emergency situations. Additionally, there may be a debate concerning the feasibility of accommodating employees who may frequently respond to emergencies, potentially impacting business operations and workplace productivity.
In volunteer firefighters, repealing provisions relating to employment sanctions; and providing for volunteer emergency responders employer tax credit.
An Act to Include Certain Volunteer Firefighters in the Tax Credit for Employers of Individuals Who Are Volunteer Firefighters or Volunteer Municipal Emergency Medical Services Persons
Relative to death benefits for public works employees killed in the line of duty, and relative to workers' compensation offsets for certain retirement system benefits.
Relative to certain assault offenses, bail eligibility for commission of certain assault offenses, and making a false report to a law enforcement officer.
Relative to workers' compensation for firefighter cancer disease and establishing a commission to study the implementation of optional annual cancer screenings.
Relative to certain assault offenses, bail eligibility for commission of certain assault offenses, and making a false report to a law enforcement officer.