TX HB446

Creates a Heat Illness Prevention Advisory Board under the Texas Workforce Commission, consisting of 7 members including heat safety experts, construction workers, an employer, a worker safety nonprofit representative, and a construction labor union representative

Requires the Commission to adopt heat illness prevention standards consistent with NIOSH guidelines, including requirements for drinking water, shade/climate-controlled access, rest periods, restrooms, emergency response procedures, heat acclimatization, and employee/supervisor training

Applies to all employers in Texas regardless of business size, type, or location, requiring them to post multilingual notices (English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and other languages) about heat safety standards and employee rights at all worksites

Prohibits retaliation against employees who experience heat illness, report violations, file complaints, or participate in investigations, classifying such actions as unlawful employment practices

Imposes administrative penalties of at least $1,000 per violation per day and creates a private cause of action allowing employees to sue for damages, attorney's fees, and treble damages for knowing violations, with employer compliance required by March 1, 2026