Relating to: notice to employees of full-service pharmacies and major grocery stores of permanent business closings and providing a penalty. (FE)

This bill requires employers operating full-service pharmacies or major grocery stores to provide at least 60 days advance written notice to employees before permanently closing their business. The law defines a full-service pharmacy as one that dispenses prescriptions with an on-site pharmacist and a major grocery store as a licensed food establishment selling fresh produce and staples that occupies at least 15,000 square feet. If an employer fails to give timely notice, affected employees may recover up to 60 days of pay and the value of lost benefits through a claims process administered by the state department. The bill also requires employers to notify local workforce development boards and municipal officials, and provides for attorney fees if employees successfully pursue legal action against non-compliant employers.