To repeal ergonomics rules concerning musculoskeletal disorders and prevent the adoption of any similar rules unless they are required by congress or the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Ergonomics rules are expected to cost businesses up to $700 million in the first year of implementation. That is equivalent to a 37 percent B&O tax increase. See also Companion SB 5015.   Official Text and Analysis.

By Amber Balch, AWB; Tim O'Connell, Stoel Rives, LLP; Ed Danzer, Danzco; John Cedergreen, WA Food Processors Council; Stan Bigos; Curt Anderson, NFIB-ACCA; George Madsen, Madsen Roofing, Inc.; Dick Mettler, NW Wall & Ceiling Contractors Assn. They testified L&I doesn't have statutory authority for these rules, and the cost/benefit analysis used by L&I is flawed. The rules will force jobs and businesses to leave the state. Employers should not be required to comply with untested, and unique rules, especially when there is disagreement among experts in the subject, and there is the possibility of inconsistent application.

By Dr. Michael Silverstein, L&I; Randy Loomans, WSLC; Owen Linch, Teamsters; Blaine Sherfinski, UCFW Local 367; Greg Devereux, WFSE; Linda Lanham, IAM; Greg Fisher, UFCW Local 1105; Ellie Menzies, SEIU; Jerrie Wood, CWA State Council. They testified that the rules advance the goal of preventing injury, create a safer workplace, increase productivity, and will have a positive affect on worker compensation premium rates. The rules provide uniform standards, which have been reviewed by a "Blue Ribbon Panel," and won't cost as much as opponents' studies estimate.

To provide that the ergonomics rules will be considered voluntary guidelines.

To establish programs within the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) to promote ergonomic education, provide assistance to businesses, and establish an Ergonomics Review Board.

To repeal ergonomics rules concerning musculoskeletal disorders.

To bring the bill directly to the House floor, where it may receive a vote by the House. If this motion would have passed, the House would have been able to vote on SB 5161 to repeal ergonomics rules. Since the motion failed, SB 5161 is now in the House Commerce & Labor Committee.

The bill did not pass both chambers during the 2003 regular session, so the bill automatically returned to the Senate Rules Committee when the regular 105-day session adjourned on April 27, 2003.