Day: March 22, 2024

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STATEMENT: Celebrating the Landmark Affordable Care Act (ACA)’s 14 Years

  By Blog post, Penn Policy Center, Statement

Originally published at Pennsylvania Policy Center on March 22, 2024. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 22, 2024 CONTACT: Kirstin Snow, Communications Director snow@pennpolicy.org STATEMENT ON 14th ANNIVERSARY OF THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT The landmark Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law fourteen years ago on March 23, 2010, thanks to President Obama and the commitment of millions of advocates—including 25,000 in Pennsylvania—who worked for years, encouraging politicians to address the health insurance industry’s abuses and the needs of 50 million Americans who could not afford health insurance. As its earlier incarnation, Pennsylvania Policy Center contributed to the victory as part of Health Care for America Now (HCAN), which was led in Pennsylvania by our executive director Marc Stier. Our deputy director, Levana Layendecker, served as the digital director of HCAN nationwide. Fourteen years later, we celebrate a great deal of progress while recognizing that there is still much work to do. The ACA cut the rate of uninsurance in… Continue reading

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There’s a Crucial Need for OSHA Regulations in Safeguarding Public Sector Workers

  By Blog post

Originally published at Pennsylvania Policy Center on March 22, 2024. In Pennsylvania, OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations apply to most private sector employers and employees. However, public sector employees, including those working for “Section (3)(5) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 specifically excludes Federal OSHA’s authority over employees of State and local government. The Act provides for States to assume responsibility for occupational safety and health programs under the state’s own plan, which must be approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.” These protections implement lifesaving health and safety standards in the workplace as well as avenues to report violations and receive assistance. Amongst other protections, OSHA standards require private employers to: provide fall protection, ensure the safety of workers who are in confined spaces, provide protection against infectious diseases, and prevent exposure to harmful substances like asbestos or lead. Without regulation, all public… Continue reading