Workplace safety committee rules modified

Lawmakers approved a measure Feb. 20 that eliminates an unfunded state program related to workplace safety for private employers.

LB397, sponsored by Columbus Sen. Mike Moser, repeals the Workplace Safety Consultation Program, which authorized the state Department of Labor to conduct workplace inspections and consultations to determine whether employers are complying with standards issued by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

The bill also removes the requirement for private sector employers to maintain a workplace safety committee. Public sector employers subject to the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act still must establish workplace safety committees to allow oversight for employees not covered by OSHA.

Under the measure, public sector employers subject to collective bargaining agreements may establish safety committees through the collective bargaining process.

LB397 passed on a 35-13 vote.