H.R.2647 - Safe Workplaces Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2647, the Safe Workplaces Act, directs the Secretary of Labor to issue non-mandatory guidance on reducing workplace violence. This involves a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and subsequent guidance from OSHA, differentiated by workplace type. The guidance will focus on activities and work practice controls to mitigate violence risks.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to provide employers with tools to create safer work environments. It emphasizes non-mandatory guidance, meaning compliance is voluntary. The impact will depend on how widely employers adopt the recommended practices.
Potential Benefits
- Provides resources and information to employers for violence prevention.
- Encourages a proactive approach to workplace safety.
- Offers tailored guidance for various workplace settings.
- May reduce the incidence of workplace violence.
- Could improve employee morale and productivity.
Potential Disadvantages
- Guidance is non-mandatory, potentially limiting its effectiveness.
- Implementation costs for engineering and work practice controls may burden some businesses.
- The study and guidance development process could be lengthy.
- Potential for inconsistent application across different workplaces.
- Definitions of key terms like 'threat of violence' could be subject to interpretation.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve safety and well-being in the workplace. The federal government's role in regulating workplace safety has been established through previous legislation and court decisions. No specific constitutional conflicts are immediately apparent.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).