Congresswoman Harshbarger’s Bill to Permanently Authorize OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program Advances Out of Committee

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) announced today that her bipartisan Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act (H.R. 2844) has advanced out of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, a key step toward codifying OSHA’s successful Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) into federal law. The bill was renamed in honor of the late U.S. Senator Michael Enzi of Wyoming, a longtime champion for VPP and worker safety.

“Today’s committee vote moves us closer to making worker safety a true partnership between employers, employees, and OSHA. The Voluntary Protection Program has a proven record of reducing injuries and illnesses while recognizing employers that go above and beyond. Instead of a one-size-fits-all, enforcement-only approach, this bill locks in a model that helps businesses comply, rewards excellence, and keeps workers safe.” - Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger

Currently, the VPP safeguards nearly one million workers at 2,200 worksites nationwide including 36 different worksites across Tennessee and 5 worksites in Tennessee’s 1st Congressional District.

The Michael Enzi Voluntary Protection Program Act would permanently authorize OSHA’s VPP, which has operated since 1982, so the program cannot be eliminated or defunded at the whim of any administration. VPP recognizes workplaces with exemplary safety and health systems and provides regulatory flexibilities that let participants focus resources on prevention and continuous improvement.

The legislation is led in the House by Congresswoman Harshbarger with original co-sponsor Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA), underscoring bipartisan support for strengthening workplace safety through collaboration and innovation. 

Quick Facts on the Voluntary Protection Program

• VPP safeguards nearly one million workers at 2,200 worksites nationwide.
  • 36 worksites in Tennessee
  • 5 worksites in Tennessee’s 1st Congressional District
    • 2 in Kingsport, TN
    • 1 in Greenville, TN
    • 1 in Newport, TN
    • 1 in Midway, TN
  • To view the entire list, click HERE.
• VPP worksites report injury and illness rates 50% lower than industry averages.
• By promoting safer workplaces, VPP saves employers an estimated $257 million in the private sector and $30 million in the public sector through reduced workers’ compensation, insurance, and lost time costs.

Why It Matters

OSHA’s VPP was launched during the Reagan Administration and has delivered results for more than four decades. Making VPP a statutory program will provide certainty and stability for employers and workers who invest in rigorous, proactive safety practices.