State News

Indianapolis – OSHA’s recent investigation into Indiana’s State Plan program resulted in several “valid observations and useful recommendations,” the state said in its response sent to federal OSHA on April 11.

The head of Cal/OSHA is denying a former employee’s allegations that the State Plan plays politics with funding – and that worker safety is being jeopardized.

Fresno, CA – To help educate employers and workers about heat exposure at outdoor worksites, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health has launched its annual Heat Illness Prevention Program.

Salem, OR – The number of workplace deaths in Oregon declined slightly in 2013, according to preliminary figures from the state’s Department of Consumer and Business Services.

Albany, NY – New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D) recently urged federal officials to speed up federal rail safety reforms, as derailments of trains transporting volatile crude oil continue to occur in North America.

New York – Nearly half a million more New York City workers will receive paid sick leave under recently passed legislation that expands the scope of a law passed last year.

Lansing, MI – The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration is scheduled to host its 10th annual Take a Stand Day on Aug. 13.

Los Angeles – California state Sen. Ron Calderon (D) has been indicted for taking bribes in connection with a workers’ compensation fraud scheme.

Washington – The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is severely understaffed, has weakened worker protections and is resource-starved, according to a new report from Garrett Brown, a 20-year veteran of the agency.

Falls Church, VA – With the federal government occupied with budgetary issues and having to deal with a “broken” rulemaking process, states may end up taking their own steps to craft occupational safety and health legislation and regulation, according to the American Industrial Hygiene Association.