Yes, you read that right: outlawing workplace safety rules.
Governor Rick Snyder has, apparently, identified one of the chief reasons Michigan businesses aren’t successful and why businesses refuse to come to Michigan: they are afraid we’ll pass a law requiring businesses to implement ergonomically safe workplaces.
Well, they need not worry anymore. Today, Snyder signed a bill outlawing laws that would require ergonomically-safe workplaces.
Gov. Rick Snyder plans to sign a bill that would prevent state-level administrative rules mandating workplace ergonomics in Michigan.The Republican governor scheduled a formal bill signing event for this afternoon.
Ergonomics aims to limit injuries caused by lifting, repetitive motion and awkward work positions. Then-Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s administration worked on ergonomics rules but never enacted them.
Snyder has said he wants to stop what he calls “overreaching” ergonomics regulations.
Whew! Michigan dodged another bullet. No burdensome, onerous requirements on businesses to keep their employees safe. All that’s left to do now is relieve them from the burden of paying for health insurance that covers repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and the myriad other ailments caused by non-ergonomic work environments and Michigan is sure to come roaring back.
Oh, and how ironic is the phrase “Overreaching ergonomics regulations”?
Well, at least House Republicans failed to overturn domestic partner benefits for state employees. Democrats will just have to take whatever crumbs we can get these days in this state, I guess.
I’m just sayin’…
