Regulations/Legislation

Washington – Sen. Al Franken (D-MN) on Workers Memorial Day (April 28) reintroduced legislation that would update the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

Washington – Five years after the tragedy at Upper Big Branch mine in West Virginia killed 29 workers, the Mine Safety and Health Administration has made strides to prevent similar incidents but still needs more tools, MSHA chief Joseph A. Main said during an April 23 hearing.

Cleveland – At least two crew members would be required on every freight train, under recently proposed legislation from Rep. Don Young (R-AK).

Washington – Employers would have an opportunity to abate certain OSHA violations before being subject to a fine, under legislation introduced April 22 by Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-MO).

Washington – Do you have thoughts on how regulations affect your business or industry? Now you can share those stories with the federal government.

Washington – The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs on April 3 completed its review of OSHA’s Confined Spaces in Construction Standard, paving the way for the final rule to move forward.

Washington – A budget amendment that would bolster protections for pregnant women in the workplace passed the Senate with a 100-0 vote on March 26.

Washington – The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee has approved a markup bill (S. 650) that would delay, by five years, a requirement for railroads to implement Positive Train Control.

Washington – A group of senators has introduced legislation intended to strengthen safety standards for rail cars that haul volatile crude oil across the country.

Washington – The Senate on March 26 passed an amendment that would support a worker’s right to earn paid sick leave.