Regulations/Legislation

Washington — OSHA’s proposed rule on infectious diseases in “health care and other high-risk environments” has been submitted to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs for final review.

New York — Hotel operators in New York City now must provide panic buttons to their workers, under a new law signed by Mayor Eric Adams (D) on Nov. 4.

Boca Raton, FL — “Mental injuries” (such as post-traumatic stress disorder), cannabis and independent contractors were among the top workers’ compensation-related issues that state legislatures focused on this year, a new report shows.

New York — Both city and state legislation and public health initiatives are needed to protect outdoor workers in New York City from extreme temperatures and poor air quality, according to a new report.

Sacramento, CA — Naloxone hydrochloride or another Food and Drug Administration-approved opioid-reversal medication must be included in all workplace first aid kits in California no later than Dec. 1, 2028.

New York — Legislation recently introduced in New York City would establish a database on workplace deaths, and employers could be fined up to $2,500 per violation for not reporting data.

Sacramento, CA — California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has vetoed – for the second time in two years – legislation that would have prohibited driverless autonomous trucks weighing 10,000 pounds or more from operating on state roadways.

Sacramento, CA — For the second time, legislation that would prohibit autonomous trucks weighing 10,000 pounds or more from operating on California roadways awaits the signature of Gov. Gavin Newsom (D).

Orlando, FL — Although OSHA remains largely a regulatory and enforcement agency, it’s recently started prioritizing safety culture.

Orlando, FL — OSHA is seeking to harness the power of employers as a “force multiplier” to improve worker safety and health, according to agency leader Doug Parker.