This bill mandates that state employers comply with safety standards equivalent to those established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It amends RSA 277:1 to require that employers provide a level of protection for employees that is at least as effective as the standards set forth in rules adopted under RSA 277:16. The bill also introduces a new paragraph in RSA 277:16, granting the commissioner the authority to adopt necessary rules to implement these standards, review them annually, and update them as needed. The commissioner is tasked with maintaining records of these reviews and making recommendations for statutory amendments to the legislature when necessary.

Additionally, the bill allows for the hiring of up to six full-time labor inspectors and one support staff member to enforce these safety standards. The costs associated with these positions, along with necessary equipment and operational expenses, will be charged against the Department of Labor's administration fund or a restricted fund, as approved by the legislative fiscal committee. The estimated financial impact of this bill includes costs exceeding $639,000 in FY 2026, with subsequent years showing a decrease in costs. The bill is expected to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 277:1, 277:16