Farmworker Smoke and Excessive Heat Protection Act of 2025

# Farmworker Smoke and Excessive Heat Protection Act of 2025 Summary This bill would establish new workplace safety protections for farmworkers exposed to smoke from wildfires and excessive heat. If passed, it would require the federal government to set standards that protect agricultural workers when air quality deteriorates due to smoke or when temperatures become dangerously high. The legislation aims to address health risks that farmworkers currently face with limited federal safeguards, particularly in western states where wildfire smoke and extreme heat are increasingly common. The bill directly affects farmworkers and agricultural employers across the country, with particular impact in regions prone to wildfires and heat waves.

It would likely require employers to implement measures such as providing protective equipment, offering rest periods, ensuring access to water and shade, and possibly adjusting work schedules during hazardous conditions. The specific requirements would depend on regulations developed by federal agencies after the bill's passage. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee (S 2571), meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full Senate vote. It was sponsored by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and remains under consideration.