H.R.86 NOSHA Act

Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ-5) introduced and sponsored H.R.86, the NOSHA Act, on January 3, 2025, with no cosponsors. The full title of the legislation—“Nullify Occupational Safety and Health Administration Act”—reflects its core intent: to significantly alter the federal government’s role in overseeing workplace safety by shifting certain regulatory and enforcement responsibilities from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to individual states.

If enacted, the NOSHA Act would provide states with increased latitude in designing and implementing workplace safety standards, inspections, and penalties. Proponents argue that the bill encourages innovation and responsiveness by allowing states to tailor safety regulations to local economic conditions and industry needs. Additionally, supporters contend that reducing federal oversight could streamline administrative costs and eliminate duplicative rulemaking.

Critics counter that diminished federal involvement risks creating inconsistent protections and enforcement disparities across state lines. Worker advocacy groups express concern that underfunded or underprepared state agencies may struggle to uphold robust safety standards, potentially placing employees at higher risk in certain regions. They also question whether shifting responsibilities away from OSHA undermines the agency’s longstanding mission to ensure uniform, nationwide workplace safety.

Shortly after its introduction, H.R.86 was referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. While it has attracted attention from supporters of states’ rights and deregulation, the bill’s outlook remains uncertain as lawmakers deliberate the balance between localized governance and maintaining consistent national workplace safety standards.