Congress Blocks Heat Safety Rule | Tucson News

July shattered U.S. heat records as Phoenix endured 18 straight days under extreme heat warnings, yet Congress just advanced a bill to block a Biden-era OSHA rule meant to protect workers from deadly heat stress. The controversial H.R. 6213, backed by business interests and labeled “unnecessary” by its sponsor, could prevent federal mandates for shade, water, and rest breaks — even as labor advocates warn it sets a dangerous precedent. While the rule, still in development, is grounded in science and triggered at 80°F heat index, opponents argue it’s too costly. The vote split along party lines, with Democratic lawmakers from hot states like Arizona and California sounding alarms over corporate favoritism. Experts note it’s rare for Congress to halt an unfinalized rule — especially when OSHA was preparing revisions — and now, the fight for worker safety may increasingly fall to state governments. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a66b1c0b1a800eec