We have good news to report in the ongoing fight to provide a safer work environment for our members.

Governor Baker has signed into law a bill that extends OSHA protections to public employees working in municipalities, public higher education, quasi-public agencies and authorities like the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority.

The bill cleared the legislature earlier this month with the strong support of AFSCME Council 93, the Massachusetts AFL-CIO, and other public-sector unions. It was signed by Governor Baker on March 9th. However, the new law will not take effect until February 1, 2019.

The legislation, which extends the same workplace safety standards afforded to private sector employees, builds on progress made in 2014 when a law was passed providing these important protections to state executive branch employees.

Under the new law, the Massachusetts Attorney General has enforcement powers and may bring "a civil action for declaratory or injunctive relief to enforce the law."

Council 93 is committed to working with our members to address any and all workplace safety issues. If you believe you are facing hazards on the job due to inadequate or wrongful safety practices, email Council 93 so we can work with you to address the problem.