Posted: | March 19, 2018 01:38 PM |
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From: | Representative Jeanne McNeill |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Workers’ Memorial Day |
In the near future, I will be introducing a resolution designating April 28, 2018 as “Workers’ Memorial Day” in Pennsylvania. Throughout the world, Workers’ Memorial Day is observed each year in honor of our fellow workers, friends, and family members who have suffered injuries, illness, or have lost their lives as a result of workplace accidents. Furthermore, this day commemorates the anniversary of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), which took effect on April 28, 1971. During the industrial history of this state, Pennsylvania residents have been alerted of workplace accidents and, as a response, have called for safety measures for workers in local industries such as mining and manufacturing. In the past decades, elected officials and business leaders have heeded those calls and responded appropriately by approving and implementing important workplace protections and safety regulations, like OSHA, which offers protections to workers in many sectors. Workers’ Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the importance of these laws and regulations. Moreover, it highlights the need to remain attentive to the safety of our workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a total of 5,190 workers suffered workplace injuries in the United States-- with 163 fatal occupational injuries in Pennsylvania. Additionally, approximately 2.9 million nonfatal injuries were reported to result from accidents at work. This resolution asserts the value of each and every member of our workforce and reaffirms our commitment to safe working environments. Furthermore, it provides the House of Representatives with an opportunity to honor the thousands of individuals, throughout the United States, who have succumbed to workplace fatalities and the millions who suffer workplace injuries. Most importantly, this resolution will enable us to extend our sympathies to the colleagues, families, and friends of those who have been lost. I hope that you will join me in honoring these men and women by co-sponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as HR802