Labor Unions Unite to Challenge Cuts to Occupational Safety Programs

May 15, 2025 - 22:07

(Washington, D.C.)—A coalition of unions representing workers in nursing, education, mining, and manufacturing, alongside a personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturer, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. The aim of the lawsuit is to reverse what they describe as the unlawful dismantling of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which operates under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The plaintiffs argue that the drastic cuts to NIOSH programs threaten the safety and health of workers across various sectors. They contend that NIOSH plays a critical role in researching workplace hazards and developing guidelines to protect employees from occupational risks. With the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the unions emphasize the importance of maintaining robust health and safety regulations.

The lawsuit reflects growing concerns among labor advocates about the federal government's commitment to worker safety and the potential long-term impacts of weakened oversight in occupational health. The outcome of this legal challenge could shape the future of workplace safety initiatives in the United States.