Texas Democrats Applaud Proposed Federal Rule Requiring Heat Protections for Workers
The proposed federal rule that would establish safety standards for workers operating in extreme heat has been welcomed by Texas Democrats, who have been fighting against a state law that preempted local ordinances guaranteeing water breaks for workers.
U.S. Rep. Greg Casar staged a “thirst strike” last year to protest the law signed by Gov. Greg Abbott, which has been dubbed the “Death Star” bill. The proposed rule by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) would require employers to provide access to shade, water, and rest for workers in blistering heat.
President Joe Biden praised the rule as a move to safeguard workers from extreme heat, citing the risks faced by construction workers, mail carriers, and manufacturing employees. The rule includes requirements for identifying heat hazards, developing response plans, and providing employee training.
The need for such protections was highlighted by the tragic death of Dallas mail carrier Eugene Gates Jr., who collapsed and died last summer on a day with a heat index of 113 degrees. OSHA fined the postal service for failing to protect workers from the recognized hazard of high outdoor heat.
U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who has been advocating for worker safety, praised the administration for taking steps to protect workers from deadly heat. She emphasized the importance of holding employers accountable and ensuring that workers are not put at risk due to extreme heat conditions.
The proposed rule will face opposition from industry groups who view it as burdensome, but Democrats are determined to push for its implementation to prevent heat-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths among millions of American workers. Biden plans to hold a White House summit on extreme heat later this summer to further address this critical issue.
