What’s Happening:
The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed rolling back or repealing more than 60 federal regulations deemed “obsolete” by the Trump administration. These changes are now in the public comment phase.
AP News: Trump’s Labor Department proposes more than 60 rule changes in a push to deregulate workplaces
(https://apnews.com/article/223309692fecb3721ef377154e7689ed)
Washington Post: Trump to cut protections for home health aides, migrant farmworkers
(https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/07/02/trump-labor-department/)
ABC News: Trump’s Labor Department pushes deregulation effort
(https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/trumps-labor-department-proposes-60-rule-push-deregulate-123949631)
Key Proposed Changes:
- Home Health Care Workers
Removes federal minimum wage and overtime protections for ~3.7 million workers, reverting to pre-2013 rules.
(https://apnews.com/article/223309692fecb3721ef377154e7689ed)
(https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/trumps-labor-department-proposes-60-rule-push-deregulate-123949631) - Migrant Farmworker (H‑2A) Protections
Ends seatbelt requirements in employer transport and repeals anti-retaliation protections.
(https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/07/02/trump-labor-department/)
(https://apnews.com/article/223309692fecb3721ef377154e7689ed) - Construction Site Safety
Revokes OSHA lighting standards, relying instead on general enforcement powers.
(https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/trumps-labor-department-proposes-60-rule-push-deregulate-123949631)
(https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/trump-20-potential-effects-second-trump-administration-workers-compensation-2025-07-17/) - Mining Safety Oversight
Limits MSHA managers’ authority to revise mine safety and training plans.
(https://apnews.com/article/223309692fecb3721ef377154e7689ed)
(https://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/trumps-labor-department-proposes-60-rule-push-deregulate-123949631) - Limiting OSHA’s Scope
Restricts General Duty Clause from applying to “inherently risky” jobs like stunt work, professional sports, and entertainment.
(https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/07/02/trump-labor-department/)
(https://apnews.com/article/223309692fecb3721ef377154e7689ed)
Maryland-Specific Impacts:
Home Health Care Wages
Maryland’s $15/hour minimum wage still applies. However, federal rollback of overtime rules may impact scheduling and classification.
Construction & Mining Safety
Removing OSHA and MSHA mandates may increase liability if state standards aren’t updated or enforced.
H‑2A Farm Workers
Maryland farms could lose protection under repealed federal rules, with no comparable state statutes in place.
Recommended Action Items for MD Employers:
Home care agencies: Review overtime exemptions and scheduling.
Construction/mining: Document safety practices around lighting and ventilation.
H‑2A employers: Revisit transport protocols and strengthen anti-retaliation safeguards.
All employers: Monitor federal rulemaking and potential legal challenges.
Contact us today to discuss how these proposed changes may impact your business. (410) 522-1020 | info@luchanskylaw.com | www.luchanskylaw.com
About Luchansky Law
Luchansky Law is a premier labor and employment law firm committed to providing exceptional legal representation and client service. Founded in 2004 by Bruce Luchansky, the firm offers a wide range of legal services to businesses and individuals, focusing on workplace issues, employment disputes, and compliance. Luchansky Law is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of diligence, professionalism, and compassion in its practice.
