OSHA’s Handling of State Covid Relief Plan Draws Watchdog Rebuke

Millions in federal Covid-19 relief dollars for states’ worker safety efforts reached only five states despite 28 states with workplace safety agencies being eligible, a new US Department of Labor watchdog report found.

Only $12.4 million out of $16 million available under the pandemic grant program was allocated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, according to the DOL Office of Inspector report released Tuesday.

The money was part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 that became law on March 11, 2021, providing OSHA with about $100 million to be spent through fiscal year 2023.

“Due to OSHA’s ...