1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

The recent layoffs at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have severely undermined this crucial agency's ability to protect worker health and safety. With nearly all remaining staff let go, important programs like approving new protective equipment for firefighters and other emergency responders have ground to a halt. This jeopardizes the wellbeing of millions who rely on properly vetted safety gear in hazardous working conditions. NIOSH also plays a vital role in investigating workplace injuries and health hazards, research that directly informs safety standards set by OSHA. With these core functions now crippled, workplaces across the country will become more dangerous without proper oversight and regulation based on the latest scientific findings. Even critical efforts like supporting the World Trade Center Health Program for 9/11 responders have been disrupted by the staff cuts. I urge you to exercise Congress' constitutional power of the purse to restore full funding and staffing for NIOSH. Worker safety should be a non-partisan priority, and allowing this experienced scientific agency to continue its work unimpeded is essential for safeguarding all Americans' right to safe employment conditions. Robust investment in NIOSH upholds a core duty of the federal government - protecting the health and welfare of its citizens.