Overview

• Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida signed a bill preventing local governments from establishing heat protection standards for outdoor workers.
• The legislation, supported by the agricultural and construction industries, aims to maintain economic stability by avoiding a 'patchwork' of local regulations.
• Critics argue the law will endanger workers, especially in a state known for extreme heat, as it nullifies existing proposals for mandatory shade and water breaks.
• The bill also restricts local governments from setting minimum wages higher than state or federal levels.
• Environmental and labor advocates warn that the law leaves workers vulnerable to the increasing dangers of heatwaves due to climate change.