National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) State Director Michael Smith warned against House Bill 1054, which would create a new state-level workplace safety regulatory system, during a conversation with John Rush on “Rush to Reason,” according to a Mar. 17 statement.
The discussion comes as Colorado considers adding another layer of regulation for workplace safety. Smith said the bill would increase government involvement in regulating and enforcing workplace safety. “This is a bill that really just brings more government into the regulation and enforcement of workplace safety,” Smith said. “Other states just do their own enforcement of workplace safety regulations at the state level, but this bill would maintain the federal OSHA system, and then also bring in a layer at the state level to make regulations in certain instances.”
Smith expressed concern about Colorado’s regulatory environment, saying, “There’s a real thirst for more government in Colorado, unfortunately. Colorado has become the sixth most regulated state, according to a recent study. When you’re number six, that puts you in the company of states like California, New York, and Illinois. That’s not how we need to be.”
The NFIB director argued that while worker safety is important for employers, HB 1054 would go beyond current federal requirements by establishing an additional enforcement system at the state level. This could result in more rules, paperwork, inspections, penalties, and increased liability for small businesses.
The National Federation of Independent Business aims to advocate for small and independent businesses by providing legislative support and resources according to its official website. The organization provides dedicated support for small businesses across all 50 states, including Colorado according to its official website. It engages in advocacy efforts designed to promote policies that foster economic growth for small businesses in Colorado according to its official website. The group also offers tools, research, and compliance guidance tailored for small business needs according to its official website.
As debate continues over HB 1054’s potential impact on employers and workers alike, Smith urged listeners to contact their legislators regarding the proposal.
