To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Administrative Expenses, Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund for fiscal year 2024.
Impact
The enactment of HB1941 would directly affect the operational capacity of the Department of Labor, especially in managing compensation claims related to occupational illness among energy employees. With a specific cap on funding, it could potentially hinder the department's ability to adequately respond to claims, impacting the evaluation and fulfillment of benefits owed to eligible workers. As the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund is crucial for those affected by workplace hazards in the energy sector, this limitation could raise concerns about the timely support for these individuals.
Summary
House Bill 1941 introduces a limitation on the availability of funds for the Department of Labor’s Administrative Expenses, specifically targeting the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Fund for the fiscal year 2024. The bill stipulates that the total amounts authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for these purposes cannot exceed $59,098,000. This measure reflects a broader trend in legislative budgeting where limits are placed on governmental financial commitments, aligning with fiscally conservative principles.
Contention
While supporters may argue that such financial constraints are essential for tightening government spending and ensuring fiscal responsibility, critics may find issues with limiting funds to essential safety and health programs. Critics might contend that reducing the financial support for these compensation programs may prioritize budgetary goals over the welfare of energy employees who have suffered occupational illnesses. Therefore, this bill could ignite debates surrounding public health funding versus budget management, especially concerning vulnerable worker populations.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Office of Worker's Compensation Program, Salaries and Expenses for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Salaries and Expenses for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Office of Workers' Compensation Benefits, Cost of Administration for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration, Salaries and Expenses for fiscal year 2024.
To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, Salaries and Expenses for fiscal year 2024.