Michigan House Bill HR0085

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/26/23
• Refer: 4/26/23

Caption

A resolution to affirm the Governor’s proclamation on workplace safety and call on the Governor, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and all those responsible for the safety of Michigan’s workers to do everything in their power to decrease workplace deaths and make worksites safer for all hardworking Michiganders.

Impact

The resolution underscores the alarming statistics related to workplace dangers, stating that approximately 125,000 workers in the U.S. face death or serious injury annually due to occupational hazards. Specifically, it notes that in Michigan alone, 140 workers lost their lives in workplace accidents in 2021, along with numerous others experiencing life-altering injuries. By emphasizing these statistics, HR0085 aims to drive home the urgent need for enhanced safety standards, increased enforcement measures, and better health and safety conditions for employees across various sectors.

Summary

House Resolution 85 seeks to affirm the Governor of Michigan's commitment to workplace safety and calls upon various state departments to take actionable steps to reduce workplace hazards and fatalities. The resolution highlights the critical nature of worker safety and reminds stakeholders of their responsibilities to provide safe working environments, as mandated by both federal and state law. This predominantly serves to reinforce existing laws aimed at guaranteeing every worker's right to a safe job in light of tragic incidents that have occurred in the state.

Contention

Though HR0085 is primarily a resolution advocating for increased safety measures, it may encounter scrutiny regarding the effectiveness of existing labor safety regulations and the pace of change within governmental agencies responsible for enforcement. While many support the call for improved safety measures, there may be differing opinions on how to best achieve these goals. Opinions might convergently express concern about the adequacy of resources allocated to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, or whether the outreach to industries regarding compliance may be robust and efficient.

Notable_points

A poignant element of the resolution includes a reference to a recent tragic incident involving a 19-year-old worker who was killed due to workplace negligence, advocating for heightened awareness and action to prevent such occurrences in the future. The promotion of April 28th as Workers Memorial Day serves as a reminder to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, fostering a culture of safety and remembrance throughout Michigan's workforce.