PASS Supports 'Every Worker Protection Act'
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- Published: April 29, 2020
On April 28, in recognition of Workers Memorial Day and in light of the dangers faced by many federal employees during the COVID-19 crisis, PASS National President Mike Perrone issued the following statement:
“Workers Memorial Day has long been an important day of remembrance and recognition for me. It is important to take a moment and realize that every day PASS members at the FAA and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, and all federal employees, are risking their personal safety to ensure the people of this country stay safe.
“Workers Memorial Day is also an opportunity to highlight the specific needs of the federal workforce during this time of uncertainty. As such, PASS is proud to support the COVID-19 Every Worker Protection Act of 2020 (H.R.6559). This act requires the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop an emergency temporary standard to protect employees from occupational exposure to the virus responsible for COVID-19.
“While many employees represented by PASS are teleworking or reporting infrequently to government facilities, there is no guarantee that comprehensive OSHA guidelines will be in place once local restrictions ease and employees begin reporting to work. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued guidance to protect workers but that guidance is not binding.
“This is why PASS is standing with many other federal labor organizations and calling for action. The current situation is unchartered territory; as such, federal employees need reassurance that they will be protected while on the job. H.R.6559 will allow OSHA to do what is necessary to keep federal employees safe.
“On behalf of PASS, I thank all of you for the work you are doing every day and the unparalleled sacrifices you make to keep the United States safe.”