Congresswoman Tenney Reintroduces the Timothy J. Barber Act to Support Businesses’ Compliance with Workplace Heat Safety Regulations

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today reintroduced the Timothy J. Barber Act, legislation that directs the Department of Labor to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) technical support and compliance assistance programs related to heat-related illnesses. These resources are critical in helping small businesses implement safety protocols and comply with federal regulations without incurring excessive costs.

Timothy Barber, a 35-year-old New Yorker, tragically passed away from hyperthermia on July 7, 2020, while working on the Route 63 Bridge over the Genesee River in Geneseo, NY. It was his second day on the job, and the heat index had reached 95 degrees. Following a nine-month investigation, OSHA found that Tim’s employer failed to provide proper training or implement necessary safeguards against extreme heat.

“Heat-related illnesses like hyperthermia are preventable tragedies in our country. The Timothy Barber Act ensures that OSHA’s technical assistance helps employers implement life-saving practices without adding extra burdens on small businesses. While we cannot bring Tim back, this legislation works to honor his memory and prevent such tragedies from happening again," said Congresswoman Tenney.

“It has been five years since Tim’s passing, and we want to thank Congresswoman Tenney for reintroducing the Tim Barber Act to raise awareness of the dangers of heat illness. We hope this proposal leads to meaningful legislation that will help prevent another tragic loss of life from hyperthermia,” said Jim and Kathy Barber.    

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