Pennsylvania again considers safety law for food processors

For the second year, a bill introduced in Pennsylvania would require meatpacking and other food processing companies to better protect workers from injuries and illnesses, including communicable diseases.

H.B. 1923, pending in the House Labor and Industry Committee after being introduced Oct. 6, would create regulations requiring workplace health and safety committees and establish the position of workers’ rights coordinator in the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. It is nearly identical to a bill introduced in 2024 that failed to gain traction.

The measure calls on employers to inform new hires of workplace risks, including respiratory hazards, repetitive strain injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. It also requires employers to train workers in their native language if at least 5% of the workforce speaks that language.