HR 2844119th CongressIntroduced

Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act

Introduced: Apr 10, 2025

Sponsor: Rep. Harshbarger, Diana [R-TN-1] (R-Tennessee)

Labor & Employment

Standard Summary

Comprehensive overview in 1-2 paragraphs

The Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act establishes a formal, congressionally authorized voluntary workplace safety program within the Department of Labor. The bill codifies and modernizes the existing Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), which recognizes employers who implement comprehensive safety and health management systems that exceed basic OSHA requirements. Participating worksites receive exemption from routine OSHA inspections in exchange for demonstrating excellence in workplace safety through systematic hazard assessment, prevention programs, employee participation, and safety training. The legislation aims to encourage proactive safety cultures while reducing regulatory burden on high-performing employers.

Key Points

1Establishes the "Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program" requiring employers to demonstrate comprehensive safety management systems including hazard assessment, prevention programs, employee participation, and safety training
2Exempts participating worksites from routine programmed OSHA inspections, though onsite evaluations will occur without resulting in enforcement citations (serious hazards must be corrected within 90 days)
3Requires annual self-evaluations by participating employers and periodic reevaluations by the Department of Labor to maintain program eligibility
4Mandates modernization of program technology within 2 years, including digital platforms for applications, evaluations, and audit reporting
5Allocates at least 5% of annual OSHA appropriations to fund the program, with no fees charged to participating employers

Impact Areas

Employers: Companies with strong safety records can reduce regulatory compliance costs through inspection exemptions while gaining recognition for safety excellenceWorkers: Employees at participating worksites may benefit from enhanced safety programs and management systems, though they lose routine third-party OSHA inspectionsOSHA Resources: The agency can redirect inspection resources from high-performing worksites to higher-risk facilities, though the program requires dedicated funding and oversight staff

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