TAMPA, Fla. — A handful of new laws are getting ready to go into effect in Florida, including one about scorching hot temperatures.

The law bans Florida cities and counties from requiring employers give their employees water breaks and other protection when temperatures soar.

Eliseo Santana says the outdoors is his favorite place — including taking a stroll to area enjoy parks as part of his daily routine.

But he’s noticed just how hot it’s been, and says that's why he’s concerned over the recent signing of House Bill 433, which he believes is putting those who work outdoors at risk.

“Our national productivity is directly linked to the health and wellbeing of the individual worker,” he said.

Being part of Alianza, an organization aimed at uniting Puerto Ricans and Hispanic in the state, Santana is working to educate employees on what small things can be done to protect workers as temperatures increase.

It’s why U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor is urging the Department of Agriculture and OSHA to expedite the adoption of a nationwide heat protection standard.

“Just fundamental basic water breaks, protective equipment, shade at appropriate times, especially as temperatures increase,” she said.

If the heat protection standard is adopted, Castor said it would mean every business in the country would have to offer protections to their employees if they’re not already doing so.

Santana said he believes it’s a standard that will impact hundreds of jobs.

“This is not just agriculture, this is something that concerns the wellbeing, the fabric of our community,” he said.

Eliseo said that in the meantime, he will continue to do his part to shine light on issues that impact his community, in hopes that more will be done to protect those who work outdoors.