Johanns Statement on OSHA’s Plans to Clarify Regulatory Practices on Small Farms

Nebraska's U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns  issued the following statement regarding the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) pledge to clarify its policies relating to regulating activities on small farms:

“I am pleased OSHA has indicated a willingness to revisit its policy of regulatory overreach on small farms, and I hope the agency is prepared to follow through,” Johanns said. “Stepping back in line with the law means that OSHA must honor Congress’s intent to protect family farms—including post-harvest activities.  And it means OSHA must reverse its pursuit of fines on farms that meet the law’s standards.
“This isn’t a matter of changing the law; it’s a matter of restating the same law that has been on the books for decades, and OSHA must honor the limitations set by Congress. Actions speak louder than words, so time will tell if OSHA is committed to following the law.”