Labor

Washington — The House Education and Workforce Committee has approved legislation that would allow up to 5% of OSHA’s annual budget to go to the agency’s Voluntary Protection Programs.

Washington — A group of House Democrats is requesting more information about the Trump administration’s decision to cut staff at NIOSH and other moves that they claim “disregard the well-being of the people who sustain the nation’s energy infrastructure.”

Washington — NIOSH has issued a warning about counterfeit or “misrepresented” respirators that may not provide adequate protection.

Washington — Federal standards on child labor are “limited and increasingly outdated,” according to the nonpartisan Economic Policy Institute, which is calling on states to strengthen laws that protect young workers.

Denver — OSHA will likely extend by 30 days the comment period on its proposed heat rule, the agency announced Tuesday at the 2025 NSC Safety Congress & Expo.

Denver — Acting OSHA administrator Amanda Wood Laihow recently provided details on how the agency will balance enforcement and compliance.

Toronto — A new video from the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association highlights how employers and machine operators can ensure safe operations when using quick couplers.

Harrisburg, PA — A new bill in the Pennsylvania House is aimed at protecting workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses.

Washington — A House Appropriations Committee report provides further details on proposed budget cuts for OSHA, the Mine Safety and Health Administration, and NIOSH.

Arlington, VA — Combustible materials in mines “shall be cleaned up and not be permitted to accumulate in active workings, or on diesel-powered and electric equipment therein,” 30 CFR 75.400 mandates.