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Senate approves change allowing higher employer assessment to support safety training
Summary
The Senate accepted the majority report on LD 19 93, a bill to increase the cap on employer assessments funding safety and training programs; supporters said modest increases will fund prevention and save costs long term, while opponents warned of unpredictable costs on small businesses. Vote: 19-14.
The Maine Senate voted to advance LD 19 93, which would permit increases to the employer assessment cap that funds workplace safety education and training.
Senator Bradstreet warned that the bill "would allow the Department of Labor to double employer assessments without reviewing fund balances, program needs, or alternative funding options," arguing the change imposes unpredictable costs on employers. He cited figures suggesting existing contributions and questioned duplication with private-sector training.
Supporters of the bill, including Senator Tipping, said increasing the cap supports safety programs that reduce workers—compensation claims and long-term costs, and that a stakeholder process is included in the minority report to refine program operations.
After debate and a roll call, the chamber accepted the majority report as amended with 19 votes in favor and 14 opposed. The bill was placed on the calendar for further consideration and second reading on the next legislative day.
Lawmakers said they would continue to press for stakeholder review and safeguards to avoid duplication and ensure funds are effectively targeted to industry needs.
