Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act)

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) (1970)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq.)

2) Why It Was Done
Enacted to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for employees by authorizing standards, enforcement, and education programs through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
Before 1970, workplace safety laws were minimal and mostly state-based. Rising workplace injuries and fatalities pushed Congress to establish a uniform federal standard.

Acts

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) (1993)

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (29 U.S.C. § 2601 et seq.)

2) Why It Was Done
Congress enacted FMLA to provide eligible employees with job-protected, unpaid leave for family and medical reasons, recognizing the need to balance work demands with family responsibilities.

3) Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights
Before FMLA, there was no federal requirement for family or medical leave. Some states and employers had policies, but coverage was inconsistent and limited.