Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB942

Introduced
4/17/23  

Caption

Further providing for notification; providing for duty of employer; and imposing criminal and civil penalties.

Impact

The potential impact of HB 942 on state laws is significant, as it introduces specific requirements that employers must follow regarding notifications to their employees. This could lead to changes in workplace practices and policies, compelling employers to reconsider their compliance strategies. The introduction of penalties signals a strong intention by lawmakers to enforce these provisions rigorously. proponents of the bill argue that these measures are necessary to create fair workplace environments and to hold employers accountable for their obligations to employees.

Summary

House Bill 942 focuses on the responsibilities of employers regarding notification practices and establishes criminal and civil penalties for non-compliance. The legislation aims to ensure that employees receive adequate notifications about their rights, workplace policies, and any changes that may affect their employment status. By codifying these duties, the bill seeks to enhance transparency in the employer-employee relationship and protect employees' rights more effectively. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen labor standards within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 942 appears mixed among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters express positive views, emphasizing the bill's potential to empower employees and ensure they are informed about their rights. In contrast, some employers and business groups express concern about the implications of increased regulatory burdens and the potential for excessive penalties. Balancing employee protections while maintaining a supportive business environment is a central theme in the ongoing discussions related to the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention include debates over the scope of the notification requirements and the appropriateness of the criminal and civil penalties imposed on employers. Critics of the bill raise concerns about the feasibility of compliance for small businesses and the administrative burden they might face in adapting to the new requirements. Additionally, there are discussions about whether the penalties are disproportionate and could lead to unintended consequences, such as discouraging hiring or employment stability in certain sectors.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB716

Further providing for notification; providing for duty of employer; and imposing criminal and civil penalties.

PA SB46

Further providing for notification; providing for duty of employer; and imposing criminal and civil penalties.

PA SB341

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA SB94

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA HB944

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA HB718

Further providing for definitions; providing for duty of department to report and for investigations; further providing for civil remedies and penalties, for liquidated damages and for criminal penalties; providing for employer liability; and establishing the Wage Enforcement Fund.

PA SB487

Providing for notification of wage theft and for protection for employees who report wage theft; imposing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry; establishing the Wage Theft Notification and Protection Restricted Account; and imposing penalties and other relief.

PA SB987

Providing for notification of wage theft and for protection for employees who report wage theft; imposing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry; establishing the Wage Theft Notification and Protection Restricted Account; and imposing penalties and other relief.

PA HB1751

Further providing for definitions, for improper classification of employees and for criminal penalties; providing for private right of action; further providing for administrative penalties, for retaliation for action prohibited, for availability of information, for use of penalty funds and for funding; and imposing penalties.

PA HB721

Further providing for definitions, for improper classification of employees and for criminal penalties; providing for private right of action; further providing for administrative penalties, for retaliation for action prohibited, for availability of information, for use of penalty funds and for funding; and imposing penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.