OSHA: Senate Rejects Ergonomic Legislation

      On a 57-41 vote, the Senate rejected the Clinton administration's proposed ergonomic rules, the AP/Chicago Tribune reports. Democrats, most of whom voted for the rules, contend that the regulations would benefit 1.8 million workers suffering from ergonomic injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which developed the rules, argues that the rules' cost to businesses would be $4.7 billion but save them $9 billion in medical costs and increased productivity. The GOP disagrees with OSHA's figures, citing a Small Business Administration estimated cost of $60 billion. Republicans also contend that the rules could usurp state worker compensation laws and jeopardize the quality of benefits for Medicare and Medicaid recipients. The rules, also rejected by the House, are part of a budgetary bill for the departments of labor, education, and HHS. Democrats say President Clinton will veto the overall bill (Anderson, 6/23).