Regulations/Legislation

Sacramento, CA — A new California law aimed at curbing cases of silicosis among workers who cut, grind, polish and drill stone countertops is now in effect.

Washington — Congress has passed a set of appropriations bills that includes $14 million for the Chemical Safety Board.

Washington — Should the stone slab industry be protected from “abusive litigation” or should it substitute engineered stone with a product that creates less silica dust?

Trenton, NJ — Legislation that would provide cannabis workers in New Jersey protections already afforded to other private employees in the state is awaiting the signature of Gov. Phil Murphy (D).

Washington — The Federal Railroad Administration’s decision to allow railroads to expand field testing of automated track inspection technology has drawn a terse response from a national labor union.

Washington — OSHA has issued several corrections to address “minor errors” in its Hazard Communication Standard for general industry (1910.1200).

Washington — Legislation recently introduced in the House would preemptively end any attempt by OSHA to finalize a proposed rule aimed at protecting indoor and outdoor workers from heat-related injuries and illnesses.

Sacramento, CA — Changes to California’s regulations on construction safety orders for confined spaces went into effect Jan. 1.

Washington — Legislation aimed at easing access to health care and other benefits for coal miners who have black lung disease has been reintroduced in both the House and Senate.

Jacksonville, FL — Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration head Derek Barrs has vowed that the agency “will do away with anything that has to do with self-certification” amid related challenges to “major” FMCSA initiatives.