Protecting America’s Meatpacking Workers Act of 2023

The Protecting America's Meatpacking Workers Act of 2023 aims to improve safety and working conditions for meat and poultry processing workers, who face high injury rates, including double the amputation rate of other workers and widespread musculoskeletal disorders. The bill prohibits "no fault attendance policies" that penalize workers for taking legally protected leave, requires employers to provide adequate toilet facilities without punishment, and establishes new OSHA standards for ergonomic programs and protection from airborne illnesses like COVID-19. It also increases OSHA inspector funding by $60 million annually, expands workplace inspections focusing on line speeds and safety hazards, and strengthens protections for workers who report safety concerns without fear of retaliation. The bill directly affects meatpacking facilities and their workers nationwide, particularly those who experienced heightened risks during the pandemic.