Bill > AB1277

This bill, titled "Occupational safety and health: procedures," aims to update various sections of the Labor Code to enhance workplace safety and streamline procedures for reporting and addressing safety violations. Key provisions include requiring employers to notify employee representatives via certified mail about requests for permanent variances from safety standards, and establishing that the appeals board must apply occupational safety and health regulations and liberally interpret relevant laws to promote safe working conditions. The bill also revises the process for the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) to investigate complaints, mandating quicker onsite inspections for serious violations, particularly those reported by prosecutors or law enforcement, and clarifies the definition of a "serious violation" as one with a realistic possibility of death or serious physical harm. Furthermore, it modifies rules regarding citations and notices, allowing for notices in lieu of citations for minor violations only if the employer agrees to correct them and not appeal, and specifies that such notices have the same effect as citations for repeat violations. The bill also introduces new provisions for affected employees to appeal abatement terms in citations and orders, and allows them to participate as parties in appeals before the Occupational Safety and Health Appeals Board, including involvement in settlement discussions. Finally, it updates procedures for seeking judicial review of appeals board decisions and clarifies that no reimbursement is required for local agencies or school districts as the changes do not impose new costs.