Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2020

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chairman, while I appreciate my friend and colleague from Virginia and his concern about this issue, I have to oppose the amendment because it would prevent the administration from continuing its important work to finalize proposed rules to examine the exposure limits for beryllium in construction and shipyard industries.

Mr. Chairman, regulations to protect worker health are vital and necessary; however, all voices should be heard through proper notice and comment period. Unfortunately, in the last days of the previous administration, OSHA expanded its 2017 final rule without allowing for proper notice and comment from many impacted industries.

The public comment period is an essential part of upholding our democratic values because it ensures that Americans will have their voices heard in the Federal Government's regulatory process. People need to have the confidence that Federal agencies are open to their insights and constructive criticism and that their concerns will not be circumvented at the last minute.

So I encourage Members to oppose this amendment and allow OSHA to get back to work to issue a regulation that has undergone the proper review and protects the health of workers.

Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to Mr. Comer.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source