The proposed 2018 budget released by the White House last week includes a 21 percent decrease in the Department of Labor’s budget – some of which will likely come from the elimination of OSHA’s training grants. That line item is expected to save almost $11 million from the 2017 annualized CR level.
The agency’s Susan Harwood training grants – which account for $10-11 million a year – could also be cut. The grants fund the creation of in-person, hands-on training and educational programs and the development of materials for workers and employers in small businesses; industries with high injury, illness and fatality rates; and vulnerable workers who are underserved, have limited English proficiency or are temporary workers. The program intends to help workers and employers identify and prevent workplace safety and health hazards.