Senate Approves Legislation to Create Safer and Healthier Workplaces
SB22-097 will give Colorado workers the ability to raise concerns about workplace health and safety practices without fear of retaliation
DENVER, CO – The Senate today passed legislation sponsored by Senators Brittany Pettersen (D-Lakewood) and Robert Rodriguez (D-Denver) that would provide permanent whistleblower protections for workers who speak out about health or safety concerns at their workplace.
In 2020, the legislature established protections during a public health emergency. SB22-097 extends these protections, making them permanent.
“With the passage of HB 20-1415 we gave workers the protection to speak out about health and safety concerns without fear of retaliation only during public health emergencies,” Pettersen said. “Essential workers will still be essential after the pandemic, which is why I am proud to champion this bill that will extend these protections permanently and help keep workers and the public safe.”
“The pandemic highlighted that these protections weren’t in place,” Sen. Rodriquez said. “No worker should have to be worried about losing their job, or having their hours cut because they speak out about working conditions that threaten them and their colleagues. As a state we owe it to workers to give them these protections because it keeps all of us safe.”
SB22-097 protects workers in the public and private sectors by ensuring all workers have the same protections, including the ability to raise concerns about workplace health and safety practices or hazards to their employer, other workers, the public, or government agencies.
The legislation also protects workers from retaliation, discrimination, or adverse action, allows workers to wear personal protective equipment while at work without fear of discrimination, and requires employers to notify employees of their rights.
When employees do raise concerns, various remedy options are included under the bill including filing a claim with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) or bringing an action in court. The legislation also gives CDLE the authority to enforce and investigate claims.
SB22-097 will now move to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.