Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7969

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

RELATING TO LABOR AND LABOR RELATIONS -- DIVISION OF OCCUPATIONAL, SAFETY

Impact

The bill proposes a framework where if the federal government were to reduce its regulatory capacity under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the state would maintain those protections at the previous federal standards. This means that Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations would still apply within Rhode Island, upholding important safety standards concerning workplace health and safety. This initiative could bolster worker rights and promote a safer working environment throughout the state.

Summary

House Bill 7969 aims to strengthen worker safety protections in the state of Rhode Island by ensuring that if federal oversight of occupational safety decreases, the state will automatically enforce existing federal safety regulations. This bill is a response to concerns that changes in federal policy could diminish protections that have historically safeguarded workers in various industries.

Contention

Some concerns surrounding H7969 may stem from the potential implications for state funding and administration of compliance after a federal reduction in enforcement. There may be debate regarding how the necessary funding and resources will be allocated to implement these standards effectively. Furthermore, potential opposition could arise from business interests that argue an imposition of state-level enforcement may introduce additional regulatory burdens on employers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6229

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI S0951

Establishes the Rhode Island state crime laboratory within the department of attorney general.

RI H5188

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0744

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. It also adds civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI S0309

Gives authority to the department of labor and training to enforce violations of the laws relating to corrosion prevention and mitigation work requirements. This act would also add civil monetary penalties for violations of those laws.

RI H5763

Allows any retired member of the state retirement system to serve as a member of the state labor relations board.

RI S0414

Permits paid members on the state labor relations board to continue to receive their retirement benefits.

RI S1005

Allows a clinical laboratory, that is incorporated in the State of Rhode Island, to analyze blood samples, from children under the age of six (6) years, for blood lead levels.

RI H6305

Allows a clinical laboratory, that is incorporated in the State of Rhode Island, to analyze blood samples, from children under the age of six (6) years, for blood lead levels.

RI H6259

HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING APRIL 20-26 OF 2025 TO BE "MEDICAL LABORATORY PROFESSIONALS WEEK" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.