Biden’s $1.9 Trillion Relief Package Includes Worker Safety
President-elect Joe Biden will push for an OSHA standard to protect workers from COVID-19.
- By Nikki Johnson-Bolden
- Jan 20, 2021
President-elect Joe Biden announced a $1.9 trillion plan to benefit workers and instill workplace safety standards related to the pandemic on Jan. 14, according to Bloomberg Law.
The proposal is intended to be the first part of a two-step plan. It specifies providing “relief to individuals and businesses” that have struggled due to COVID-19. One part of the plan encourages OSHA to issue a coronavirus protection standard, as there are currently only guidelines, not an official standard.
The proposal also mentions extending enhanced unemployment benefits through September 2021. The extra federal benefit would also increase from $300 a week to $400 a week. Congress’ emergency paid leave mandate would be expanded under the plan as well. Paid sick and paid family and medical leave for COVID-19-related circumstances would also be mandated.
Companies would be required to provide hazard and back pay for essential workers, too.
About the Author
Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.