CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2025–2026 REGULAR SESSION

97

CHAPTER 167

Statutes of 2025

Introduced by Assembly Member Wallis

June 25, 2025

Relative to outdoor workers.

Fiscal committee: no

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL’S DIGEST

This measure would recognize July 14, 2025, to July 20, 2025, inclusive, as Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week. The measure would encourage local jurisdictions to recognize the week and Californians to improve the conditions of outdoor workers.

WHEREAS, Outdoor workers provide essential services across California, including in emergency services, landscaping, renewable energy, public utilities, agriculture, professional sports, tourism, and construction; and

WHEREAS, These workers face extreme conditions in California’s deserts, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit, posing significant risks of heat illness and death; and

WHEREAS, From 2015 to 2023, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 390 worker deaths due to environmental heat exposure, with experts noting that heat-related fatalities may be underreported as contributing factors to other causes, such as heart attacks; and

WHEREAS, Climate change exacerbates heat risks, disproportionately impacting low-income and minority workers who face occupational hazards in vital industries; and

WHEREAS, State regulations require employers to protect outdoor workers by providing adequate water, shade, rest breaks, and heat illness prevention plans to mitigate risks; and

WHEREAS, The City of Palm Desert, through local initiatives, hosted a successful event on July 20, 2024, providing food, water, cooling neck gaiters, and public recognition for outdoor workers, raising community awareness; and

WHEREAS, Outdoor workers endure physical exertion, occupational hazards, and exposure to extreme weather, including wildfire smoke and heat, yet their indispensable contributions to California’s communities often go unrecognized; and

WHEREAS, Recognizing and appreciating outdoor workers promotes safer working conditions, improved productivity, and greater public awareness of their challenges; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes July 14, 2025, to July 20, 2025, inclusive, as Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week to honor the unwavering commitment and dedication of outdoor workers to their professions; and be it further

Resolved, That local jurisdictions are encouraged to follow the example of the City of Palm Desert by hosting events to recognize and honor outdoor workers, providing resources such as water, cooling gear, and public appreciation; and be it further

Resolved, That all residents, businesses, and organizations in California are urged to express gratitude for outdoor workers by supporting their well-being through actions like providing cooling resources, advocating for enhanced workplace safety enforcement, and exploring innovative solutions such as wearable heat monitors; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Governor, the Division of Occupational Safety and Health, and the author for appropriate distribution.