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Committee approves bill letting construction crews start earlier during hot months to protect workers
Summary
SB 11 82 would allow earlier start times for construction work between May 1 and Oct 15 to reduce heat exposure; the Commerce Committee advanced the bill unanimously, with proponents citing worker safety, concrete curing benefits and existing municipal practice.
The Commerce Committee advanced SB 11 82 on a unanimous vote after hearing sponsors and industry advocates argue earlier start times reduce heat‑related risk and keep projects on schedule.
Sponsor Sen. Analise Ortiz (LD 24) said the bill is "a very simple bill that allows construction workers to start their work earlier in the day during the hot summer months," noting that about half of Arizona cities already permit early starts and that the bill levels the playing field statewide. Proponents, including the Arizona Masonry Council and a former ADOSH official, described safety benefits for masonry and concrete work and linked earlier starts to maintaining productivity and workers' pay.
Jay Kinman of Maverick Policy Group described the measure as worker‑safety driven; he said many jurisdictions already use permits or local exceptions and that the bill codifies a consistent statewide approach. Committee members asked clarifying questions about exact start times and permitting; witnesses confirmed the bill would allow earlier work starts (examples cited ranged down to 4–5 a.m. start times for some concrete work) and stressed that municipalities sometimes use special permits now.
The committee returned SB 11 82 with a due‑pass recommendation by roll call, 10–0, and sponsors said an emergency clause would put the measure into effect in time for the coming summer.
