The Future of OSHA: The Latest Bill and Worker Safety

In February 2025, Arizona Congressman Rep. Andy Biggs reintroduced a bill that calls for the abolishment of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This proposal has garnered attention as it raises important questions about the future of worker safety standards across the United States. Whether you're an employer or an employee in industries like medical, dental, or veterinary care, this bill's implications could be significant.

While political discussions around the bill can be heated, it’s important to take a step back and assess what OSHA does, why it was established, and what might happen if it were to be defunded or dissolved. Let’s take a deeper look at OSHA’s history, purpose, and role in keeping workers safe — and why worker safety remains a critical issue, regardless of the bill’s outcome.

Rep. Biggs’ bill to abolish OSHA comes amid ongoing debates over federal regulatory bodies, with proponents of smaller government arguing that it would reduce unnecessary bureaucratic control over businesses. However, many see the move as a challenge to decades of progress in workplace safety standards. Abolishing OSHA would likely weaken enforcement of federal safety regulations and could lead to uneven protection of workers, particularly in industries such as healthcare, dental, and veterinary care.

This reintroduction of the bill brings OSHA’s role in worker safety back into focus. As businesses look for clarity on regulatory compliance, especially in industries that involve potentially hazardous conditions, understanding the potential changes to OSHA’s power is critical.

OSHA was created in 1970 under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, signed into law by President Richard Nixon. The purpose of OSHA is straightforward: to ensure that employers provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that could cause injury, illness, or death. It sets and enforces standards for workplace safety, conducts inspections, and offers training and resources for employers and employees.

The administration was established in response to the growing concerns about worker safety, particularly in industries where exposure to hazardous materials or dangerous conditions was common. OSHA’s primary goal is to protect employees by ensuring they have a safe working environment.

While there has been criticism of OSHA throughout its history — ranging from concerns about regulatory overreach to complaints from businesses about compliance costs — the agency has played a crucial role in improving workplace safety. Here are some of the benefits OSHA has brought:

1. Lives Saved: Since its inception, OSHA has helped to significantly reduce fatalities in the workplace. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that the workplace fatality rate has dropped by more than 60% since 1970, translating into thousands of lives saved.
2. Injuries Prevented: OSHA’s safety standards and enforcement of regulations have contributed to a reduction in workplace injuries. According to the National Safety Council, workplace injury rates have been cut by more than half since OSHA’s founding.
3. Free Resources for Employers: OSHA provides a wealth of resources to help employers stay compliant with regulations. This includes educational materials, training programs, safety guidelines, and mock audits to help businesses prepare for official inspections. These resources make it easier for companies, including those in high-risk industries like healthcare, to create safer work environments.
4. Training and Support: Through various initiatives, OSHA offers support to businesses looking to improve workplace safety. From training programs for staff to consultancy on creating hazard-free environments, OSHA assists employers in fostering safer, more efficient workplaces.
5. Promoting Safety Culture: By mandating safety standards and conducting inspections, OSHA has helped to shape a culture of workplace safety. Businesses now understand that safety is not just a regulatory concern but also a moral and ethical responsibility to protect employees.

It’s important to note that, regardless of the fate of federal OSHA, states are still responsible for overseeing worker safety within their borders. Currently, 22 states run their own OSHA-approved workplace safety programs, which are required to be at least as effective as federal standards. These state programs are often tailored to the specific industries and risks that are prevalent within their regions.

If federal OSHA is defunded or diminished in some way, it is expected that state-level OSHA programs would take on an even more significant role in filling the void. In fact, many states with their own programs, such as California, have long been known for their rigorous enforcement of workplace safety regulations. States like these may increase their oversight, creating an environment in which businesses must be even more diligent about compliance.

Ultimately, worker safety is not just about following regulations — it’s about the well-being of employees and the integrity of a business. For industries such as medical, dental, and veterinary care, where employees may be exposed to health hazards or physically demanding tasks, creating a safe working environment is critical. It’s also a key part of fostering trust with patients and clients. Businesses that prioritize safety create a perception of competence and professionalism, which strengthens their reputation.

The well-being of your team is foundational to your success. A safe workplace promotes employee morale, reduces absenteeism, and increases productivity. Moreover, when employees feel protected and valued, they are more likely to stay with the organization long term.

As discussions about OSHA’s future continue, it’s important to stay informed about potential changes in workplace safety regulations. At Gamma Compliance Solutions, we’re dedicated to keeping you updated on any developments in the industry that might affect your business. Our comprehensive compliance documentation program and training subscriptions ensure that you’re always in the know and prepared for any changes in regulations.

When you purchase one of our compliance programs, you gain access to regular updates and expert guidance on how to adapt to new laws and standards. Stay ahead of the curve with Gamma Compliance Solutions — ensuring the safety of your team and the future success of your business.

While Rep. Andy Biggs’ bill to abolish OSHA has sparked significant debate, one thing remains clear: worker safety is a priority that must be maintained. OSHA has played an essential role in reducing workplace injuries and fatalities, and even if federal OSHA faces challenges, states will continue to provide a level of protection for workers. Whether through federal or state-level programs, ensuring a safe work environment is crucial for both the well-being of employees and the long-term success of businesses.

At Gamma Compliance Solutions, we’re committed to helping you navigate regulatory challenges and ensure that your workplace is compliant with the highest safety standards. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in staying up to date with regulatory changes in the medical, dental, and veterinary industries.