BILLS TO ADVANCE WORKERS’ PROTECTIONS RECEIVE PUBLIC HEARING

Senator Patrick’s legislation will expedite training waiver decisions and strengthen whistleblower protection laws

AUGUSTA- Earlier today, Democratic Senator John Patrick of Rumford has introduced legislation that will enhance workplace safety and increase access to job training programs for workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

“The hard-working men and women of Maine deserve to have their voices heard,” said Senator Patrick. “My bills will allow them to speak up against workplace hazards without fear of retribution and make sure their job training cases are heard as quickly as possible.”

The first bill, LD 1643, “An Act To Enable the Bureau of Labor Standards To Access Federal Reimbursement by Amending State Law To Conform to Federal Law,” strengthens laws regarding the enforcement of workplace safety by protecting workers who report workplace safety violations.

“Workers shouldn’t have to worry about losing their jobs if they report conditions that put their lives and health at risk,” said Senator Patrick.

The second measure, LD 1668, “An Act To Expedite Training Waiver Decisions for Unemployment Claimants by Transferring Original Jurisdiction from the Unemployment Insurance Commission to the Bureau of Unemployment Compensation,” would shorten the time necessary for workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own to access job retraining programs.

“The working people of Maine are our greatest resource,” said Senator Patrick. “We need to give workers the training they need to compete in today’s economy, and make sure they can get this training as soon as possible so they can get back on their feet.”

The Labor, Commerce, Research and Economic Development Committee will hold a work session on the bills later this session.

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