WHEREAS:

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 does not provide for mandatory coverage for public employees, although many public employees work in dangerous and unpleasant surroundings; and

WHEREAS:

Approximately 50% of public employees are covered by federally approved Public Employee OSHA Plans; and

WHEREAS:

The federal OSH Act provides that a state can choose to cover its public employees and receive 50% of funding for the program from the federal government; and

WHEREAS:

Several states are attempting to pass public employee OSHA laws, but the Reagan Administration has attempted to keep these plans from being approved and funded.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME encourage all states that do not have federally approved public employee OSHA plans to pass the appropriate legislation, and that this become a legislative priority for AFSCME councils and locals; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That proposals for public employee plans include provisions covering the right to refuse hazardous work, mandatory health and safety committees, and an expedited and accessible procedure to create new standards; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME urge Congress and federal OSHA to provide funding where such plans are approved by a state legislature; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME support the passage of national legislation granting all public employees OSHA protection.

SUBMITTED BY:

Edward J. Keller, Delegate
AFSCME Local 632, Council 88
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania