But it is important, as we evaluate the effectiveness of our laws, that we do so with the goal of improving those that are working, rather than reversing course for politics or an ideological agenda.

I am not suggesting that there is an 'acceptable' level of workplace illness or injury.

But it is important that as we evaluate the effectiveness of our laws that we do so with the goal of improving and building upon those that are actually working rather than reversing course for politics for an ideological agenda.

Thank you, Madam Chair, very much.

our heart and our prayers go out to you and the tragedy that you suffered in your family.

My sense is that a definition of 'willful' would be helpful.

I think it is important that we all talk about facts in the workplace.

That strongly suggests that the focus on increased criminal sanctions would do little to address the current level of workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths in this country.

I believe those statistics provide a useful point of reference and avoid creating unrealistic expectations.

My understanding is that from 1994 that in fact workplace fatalities, the rate of workplace fatalities, has decreased.

If, on the other hand, the primary objective of the greatly increased criminal penalties is to exact retribution from the few employers guilty of truly egregious conduct, then we should acknowledge that objective.