"Why do we need a state OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) when we have a federal OSHA?" Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Emmer often asks, as he suggests that one way to reduce the state's budget deficit is to eliminate duplicative government services.
The answer: Minnesota does not have a duplicate federal OSHA operation. This is one of 26 "state plan" states, paid by the federal government to administer workplace safety rules set by the state and certified to be at least as stringent as federal requirements. There's more: Eliminating Minnesota's OSHA would do nothing to dent the $6 billion projected deficit in the state's general fund in 2012-13. That's because no general fund money is used to finance the $8 million per year operation. The 2,600 inspections done each year by its 459 full-time equivalent employees are financed 50-50 by federal funds and revenue from penalties assessed against employers who violate safety standards. Further: Minnesota's OSHA recently adopted a new database management system so efficient that's considered a model for other states. It accelerated the processing of complaints and allows staffers more time in the field, seeking to prevent workplace injuries. Think OSHA isn't necessary? Ask the families of the 25 Minnesotans, on average, who die each year because of workplace accidents. For more information about the program, see http://bit.ly/aW1nOT.
