Bill Text: CA ACR101 | 2023-2024 | Regular Session | Chaptered

California Assembly Concurrent Resolution 101

Bill Title: Outdoor workers.

Spectrum: Moderate Partisan Bill (Democrat 56-18)

Status: (Passed) 2023-08-30 - Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 147, Statutes of 2023. [ACR101 Detail]

Download: California-2023-ACR101-Chaptered.html

Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 101

CHAPTER 147

Relative to outdoor workers.

[ Filed with Secretary of State August 30, 2023. ]

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST

ACR 101, Wallis. Outdoor workers.

This measure would recognize July 17, 2023, to July 23, 2023, as Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week.

Fiscal Committee: NO

WHEREAS, Outdoor workers provide many essential services throughout California; and

WHEREAS, Industries like emergency services, landscaping, renewable energy, public utilities, agriculture, professional sports, tourism, and construction depend heavily upon the labor of outdoor workers; and

WHEREAS, In addition to the physical hardships, outdoor work is particularly difficult in the summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit and reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in desert regions; and

WHEREAS, Outdoor workers who provide vital services to Californians during these months face heightened risk for heat illness, smoke exposure, and heat-related death, much of which is related to climate change; and

WHEREAS, In the last decade, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 344 worker deaths due to environmental heat exposure, and workplace safety experts believe that the actual number of heat-related fatalities may be underreported or misreported as another cause, such as heart attacks; and

WHEREAS, Employers are now required to protect outdoor workers by providing adequate rest time, water, and shade during the summer; and

WHEREAS, The City of Palm Desert, upon the initiative of local companies, hosted a successful citywide event providing food, water, and cooling neck gaiters for outdoor workers on July 22, 2022, to show community appreciation—an event that was extensively covered by news media and successfully raised local awareness; and

WHEREAS, Outdoor workers tirelessly dedicate their efforts to maintaining and improving our communities, while facing numerous challenges, including exposure to extreme weather conditions, physical exertion, and occupational hazards; and

WHEREAS, The contributions of outdoor workers often go unnoticed and underappreciated, despite their indispensable role in the daily lives of all Californians; and

WHEREAS, Recognition and appreciation of outdoor workers promotes better working conditions, safety, and productivity; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes July 17, 2023, to July 23, 2023, as Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week to raise awareness of the significant role of outdoor workers, who display unwavering commitment and dedication to their professions; and be it further

Resolved, That local jurisdictions are recommended to follow the example of the City of Palm Desert by recognizing and honoring the outdoor workers who provide their services; and be it further

Resolved, That all Californians, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of outdoor workers by expressing their gratitude and admiration for them and taking actions that promote their well-being and safety; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.