2026 House Resolution 296

Whereas, On April 28, 1971, the Occupational Safety and Health Act went into effect, promising every worker the right to a safe job, and now both federal and Michigan law promise every worker the right to a safe workplace. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act declares that “all employees shall be provided safe and healthful work environments free of recognized hazards”; and

Whereas, Every year on April 28, communities and worksites around the world honor friends, family members, and colleagues who have been killed or injured on the job; and

Whereas, Data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics show that Michiganders have died while on the job at an average rate of approximately 150 people per year from 2015 to 2024; and

Whereas, The 2024 National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries found that a worker died every 104 minutes from a work-related injury; and

Whereas, It is imperative that we remember those who have died in workplace catastrophes, suffered occupational-related diseases, or been injured due to dangerous conditions, and that we continue to work towards safer workplaces. This continued work honors the memory of the courageous and dedicated members of Michigan’s labor force who have been injured or disabled or have died as a result of workplace accidents; and

Whereas, Michigan’s workforce is the backbone of this state’s economic growth, and we must recognize the integrity of our state’s workforce and its achievements on behalf of the economic growth of Michigan. Workers should not have to suffer workplace catastrophes, occupational-related diseases, or injuries due to dangerous working conditions. Every effort needs to be made to improve workplace health and safety, to increase workplace safety standards and enforcement, and to provide hardworking Michiganders with fair and just compensation; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and all those responsible for the safety of Michigan’s workers to do everything in their power to decrease workplace injuries and deaths and make worksites safer for all hardworking Michiganders; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the Director of the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the United States Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health.