In a notable move toward enhancing workplace safety, the Minnesota Senate recently passed Senate File 1346, also referred to as the Brady Aune and Joseph Anderson Safety Act. This measure is set to fortify protection for workers who delve into the depths of Minnesota's lakes for aquatic plant management, outfitted with scuba gear, while bringing negligent companies to account.
The legislation springs from the depths of tragedy, crafted in response to the grievances suffered by two Minnesota families. After two young Minnesotans lost their lives in work-related incidents, gaps in workplace safety laws were glaringly highlighted. The act, which is named in their honor, mandates a variety of safety measures, including the requirement for aquatic plant management employees to be equipped with specific gear and to hold an open-water SCUBA diving certification from a recognized training provider.
Further measures implemented by the bill include mandatory first-aid and CPR training for such employees and an inclusion of worker safety requirements in the Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) permitting process. Notably, companies must undergo a third-party hazard survey and consultation as part of their permit application and face the risk of permit denial or revocation if they've committed willful OSHA violations or have skirted mandatory safety consultations within the past two years.
In a statement obtained by senatedfl.mn, the bill's author, Senator Liz Boldon (DFL-Rochester), commented on the passing of the act. “First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the parents of Brady and Joseph. These unthinkable tragedies were preventable, and I can only imagine the pain that they have felt and are still navigating. Their resilience and advocacy will save lives in our state, and Minnesota owes a great deal to them," Boldon said. She underscored the expectation for employee safety harbored by those who work in hazardous environments like lakes and waterways.
The bill passed with a vote of 54-10 in the Senate, signaling a clear consensus on the importance of worker safety in high-risk industries. However, a technical amendment added on the Senate floor means that the bill will now proceed to the House for concurrence before reaching Governor Walz's desk for final approval.
