The State Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) that would require employers who have a certified safety committee as part of their workers’ compensation program to include information about the risks associated with the use of opioids.
Currently, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Law allows employers to receive a 5 percent discount on their workers’ compensation insurance premium if they establish a certified safety committee within their workplace to deal with hazard detection and accident prevention
“In addition to these current requirements, my bill would charge safety committees with providing information about the dangers of using opioids and painkillers,” Langerholc said during remarks on the Senate floor. “This is just one more tool to use as we continue to combat our opioid abuse problem in the Commonwealth.”
Senate Bill 594 now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Gwenn Dando gdando@pasen.gov