House Overturns OSHA's Unlawful Power Grab

Statement

The House today passed a resolution of disapproval (H. J. Res 83) under the Congressional Review Act to overturn an unlawful power grab by the Obama administration and reject a failed approach to workplace safety. Introduced by Rep. Bradley Byrne (R-AL), chairman of the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, the resolution would block the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) "Volks" rule from taking effect. The rule violates the policies of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) and fails to improve worker protections.

"OSHA's power grab is not only unlawful, it does nothing to improve workplace safety. What it does do is force small businesses to confront even more unnecessary red tape and unjustified litigation," Chairman Byrne said. "As Republicans have been saying for years, OSHA should collaborate with employers to prevent injuries and illnesses in workplaces and address any gaps in safety that might exist. I am pleased the House has acted to block this unlawful rule, and look forward to continuing our efforts to support proactive safety policies that help keep America's workers safe."

"Congress has a responsibility to ensure the policies put forward by OSHA not only respect the rule of law, but also improve the health and safety of our nation's workplaces. Remarkably, the Obama administration's Volks rule fails on both counts," Chairwoman Foxx said. "This rule rewrites the law through executive fiat, creating legal uncertainty for small businesses while doing nothing to strengthen protections for workers. I commend Representative Byrne for his leadership in overturning this unlawful rule and urge the Senate to take up this resolution. Our committee will continue to demand responsible policies that ensure all Americans enjoy the safe and healthy workplaces they deserve."

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