IOWA - Labor unions for state workers want a face mask order at the Iowa State Capitol.
Six unions have filed a federal complaint with OSHA, claiming the lack of a mask mandate threatens the safety of everyone who enters the building.
The unions also sent a letter to Republican leaders in the House and Senate about their concerns over the lack of COVID-19 safety precautions.
They say the leaders don't care about the safety and wellbeing of people coming into the capitol.
“The House and Senate leadership has the authority to make a mask mandate, yet they have so far chosen not to,” said Charlie Wishman, President of the Iowa Federation of Labor. “It appears they do not really care about the safety and wellbeing of everyone that comes into the capitol. This is a public health concern.”
The letter claims the lack of a mask order doesn't conform with OSHA (the Occupational and Safety Health Act of 1970).
It further contends the COVID-19 self reporting policy at the capitol in not sufficient in the absence of a robust contact tracing program.