June 22 - Refinery Safety Standards - In Then Out

A measure that would have refineries meet new safety standards that was added to the omnibus jobs and economic growth bill last week was stripped out of the bill this week. Members of the Minnesota Building Trades rallied outside the Senate Chamber in hard hats holding red signs in support of new refinery safety standards. The safety standards would make those working with hazardous chemicals go through apprenticeship training beginning in 2022 for construction or repair work at petroleum refineries. Sen. Karla Bigham, a Democrat who has a petroleum refinery in her district, attempted to add the safety standards back into the bill but failed on a party-line vote. The bill approved by the Senate on a 45-21 vote includes stimulus grants for jobs and business efforts.

A truck sponsored by Minnesota Building Trades brought the groups message to the Capitol grounds.

Tony Poole, Steamfitters Local 455, holds up his sign and raises his voice in support of petroleum refinery safety standards along with other members of the Minnesota Building Trades outside the Senate Chamber.

Members of the Minnesota Building Trades watch as Sen, Karla Bigham attempts to add safety standards for refinery workers back into the omnibus jobs and economic growth bill. The attempt failed on a party-line vote with all Republican members voting against the measure.

A member of Minnesota Building Trades listens as the Senate passes the omnibus jobs and economic growth bill on a 45-21 vote. The final bill did not include any petroleum safety standards.