This legislative bill amends several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, specifically focusing on safety committees and safety programs in relation to workers' compensation insurance. It eliminates the requirement for employers to establish safety committees and maintain injury prevention programs, as indicated by the deletions of sections 48-443 and 48-446. The bill also repeals sections 48-444 and 48-445 entirely, which terminates the associated fund and harmonizes the remaining provisions. Additionally, it modifies the criteria for employers to be considered in good faith for obtaining workers' compensation insurance by removing the stipulation that compliance with safety committee requirements is necessary for coverage.

Moreover, the bill introduces changes to the Workplace Safety Consultation Program, including the termination of the Workplace Safety Consultation Program Cash Fund on the act's effective date, with remaining funds transferred to the General Fund. It establishes that employers must keep up-to-date records following consultations or inspections and make them available to the Department of Labor upon request. The bill also emphasizes the authority of the Commissioner of Labor to conduct workplace inspections and consultations, allowing for repeated inspections at the Commissioner’s discretion, with associated costs borne by the employer. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not alter the duty of care or liability of business owners for workplace injuries or damages, while granting inspectors the right to enter premises for inspections without prior notice. Overall, the bill aims to enhance workplace safety while reducing regulatory burdens.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-144.03, 48-446
Final Reading: 48-144.03, 48-443, 48-446
Slip Law: 48-144.03, 48-443, 48-446