As the November election approaches, the future of several important environmental and health protections hangs in the balance. The Biden administration has proposed a number of regulations aimed at protecting workers from extreme heat and limiting the use of toxic chemicals, but with the possibility of a Trump administration, the fate of these regulations remains uncertain.

One of the key issues that the Biden administration has addressed is the protection of workers from extreme heat. With temperatures rising due to climate change, it is crucial that workers are provided with the necessary safeguards to prevent heat-related illnesses. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed a new standard that would require employers to provide rest breaks, access to shade, and other measures to protect workers from heat-related illnesses. However, this regulation has yet to be finalized and could potentially be overturned by a Trump administration.

Another important issue that the Biden administration has focused on is the restriction of toxic chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed a rule that would limit the use of a class of chemicals known as PFAS, which have been linked to a variety of health problems. This regulation would also require companies to report their use of these chemicals and provide alternatives. However, like the heat protection regulation, this rule has not been finalized and could face opposition from a Trump administration.

The fate of these regulations and many others proposed by the Biden administration will ultimately depend on the outcome of the November election. If Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris are elected, it is likely that these regulations will be implemented and enforced. Both Biden and Harris have made it clear that they prioritize the health and safety of workers and the environment, and have promised to take strong action to address these issues.

On the other hand, if President Trump is re-elected, there is a high possibility that these regulations will be abandoned. Throughout his presidency, Trump has rolled back numerous environmental regulations and has shown little concern for the health and safety of workers. His administration has also been criticized for its close ties to the chemical industry, which could lead to further delays or cancellations of these proposed regulations.

The impact of these potential rollbacks cannot be underestimated. The health and well-being of workers and the environment are at stake. Without proper protections from extreme heat, workers are at risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other serious health issues. And without restrictions on toxic chemicals, communities and ecosystems are at risk of contamination and long-term health effects.

Furthermore, the failure to implement these regulations would also have economic consequences. Heat-related illnesses and exposure to toxic chemicals can lead to lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and damage to the environment. By prioritizing the health and safety of workers and the environment, the Biden administration’s proposed regulations have the potential to not only protect people and the planet, but also to create a more sustainable and resilient economy.

It is clear that the outcome of the November election will have a significant impact on the future of these proposed regulations. A Harris administration would likely continue the work of the Biden administration and prioritize the implementation of these important protections. On the other hand, a Trump administration would likely continue its pattern of deregulation and disregard for the health and safety of workers and the environment.

As voters, we have the power to shape the future of our country and the protection of our health and environment. It is crucial that we consider these issues when casting our ballots in November. The fate of these proposed regulations and the well-being of our communities depend on it. Let us choose leaders who prioritize the health and safety of workers and the environment, and who will take strong action to protect them. Our future and the future of our planet depend on it.