Assembly Bill 478 aims to protect commercial construction workers from heat hazards

The Senate Committee on Government Affairs convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing worker safety and addressing climate challenges in Nevada. The meeting highlighted two significant bills: Assembly Bill 478, focused on protecting construction workers from heat-related risks, and Assembly Bill 96, which seeks to incorporate heat mitigation strategies into municipal master plans.

Assembly Bill 478, presented by Majority Leader Houdrige, aims to extend protections against heat exposure to commercial construction workers, who are often left vulnerable during the hottest months. The bill proposes adjusted work schedules that allow for earlier start times, aligning with recommendations from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. This legislative effort responds to alarming statistics indicating a rise in heat-related complaints and fatalities among construction workers in Nevada, particularly as the state experiences some of the fastest warming temperatures in the nation.

The discussion underscored the urgency of the issue, with data revealing that heat-related complaints to Nevada's OSHA surged from an average of 118 annually (2015-2020) to 467 in 2024. Presenters emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard workers, particularly those in commercial construction, who face unique challenges due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and physically demanding tasks.

Support for Assembly Bill 478 was robust, with various stakeholders, including union representatives and contractors, voicing their endorsement. They argued that the bill would not only protect workers but also enhance productivity by allowing construction tasks to be scheduled during cooler parts of the day.

Following this, Assembly Bill 96 was introduced by Assembly Member Venise Karas, which aims to revise master planning requirements to include heat mitigation strategies. This bill responds to the increasing heat-related health risks faced by Nevada's urban populations, particularly in Las Vegas and Reno, which have been identified as two of the fastest warming cities in the U.S. The proposed legislation would mandate that municipalities incorporate elements such as public cooling spaces and access to drinking water in their master plans.

The committee discussed the implications of the proposed amendments to the bill, particularly the shift from a "must" to a "may" requirement for including heat mitigation strategies. Some committee members expressed concerns that this change could dilute the effectiveness of the legislation, potentially allowing municipalities to sidestep critical heat mitigation measures.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting highlighted the Nevada legislature's commitment to addressing worker safety and climate resilience. As the state grapples with rising temperatures and their associated risks, the outcomes of these bills could significantly impact the health and safety of its workforce and the well-being of its communities. The committee is expected to continue deliberating on these bills, with further amendments and public input anticipated in the coming sessions.