H.R. 4353: Timothy J. Barber Act

The bill titled the Timothy J. Barber Act aims to direct the Secretary of Labor to conduct a study on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) spending specifically related to heat-related illnesses. Here’s what it would do in detail:

Objective of the Bill

The primary goal of the bill is to assess how effectively OSHA has been using its resources to provide technical and compliance assistance regarding heat-related illnesses. This focus is particularly relevant in regions where such issues may occur, especially as temperatures rise in various climates.

Key Components

• Study of Spending: The Secretary of Labor will evaluate the spending patterns of OSHA to understand the financial resources allocated towards tackling heat-related illnesses.
• Effectiveness Analysis: The study will look at both national and regional effectiveness, assessing whether the spending has had a significant impact on reducing heat-related illnesses.
• Recommendations: After conducting the study, the Secretary is required to provide recommendations on how the effectiveness of the spending can be improved. This might include suggestions for legislative actions or adjustments to existing practices.

Timeline for Reporting

The Secretary of Labor must submit a report to Congress with the findings of the study, including recommendations, within 180 days after the bill is enacted. This ensures a prompt evaluation of the current practices and potential improvements.

Contextual Relevance

The bill acknowledges the growing concerns regarding heat-related illnesses, particularly in occupational settings, and aims to ensure that OSHA's efforts are adequately examined and enhanced where needed. By focusing on technical assistance and compliance support, the legislation seeks to improve workplace safety in relation to extreme heat conditions.

Relevant Companies

None found.