Workers in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley Fear OSHA Office Closure, Less Protections for Louisiana Workers – Learn About What You Can Do if You are Injured in a Workplace Accident in Louisiana

There is no doubt that 2025 has started off with a number of major changes to institutions, offices, and average everyday lives of Louisiana residents and families throughout the United States. One of the major changes that has shook and rocked many agencies to their core is the shuttering and closure of federal offices throughout the United States, including in Louisiana. One such office that has now come under threat of being closed by the Trump administration is Louisiana’s one and only Occupational Safety and Health Administration Office (OSHA), which is located in Baton Rouge. But why is the potential closure of the only OSHA office in the State of Louisiana a loss for Louisiana workers? And what can Louisiana workers who have been injured on the job do to get legal help if they are unable to work due to their workplace injury? We answer those questions here.

A Dangerous Game for Workers in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley

According to Environmental Health News online, “‘Cancer Alley,’ the stretch along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, is home to more than 200 refineries and chemical plants.” The environmental science publication goes on to explain that, “The region’s nickname stems from the high incidence of cancer linked to petrochemical pollution. Louisiana already ranks among the most dangerous states for workers.” Accordingly, the consequence for workers if Louisiana’s one and only OSHA office is closed would likely pose a serious threat to the health and safety of many Louisiana workers. As EHN explains, “Removing the state’s only OSHA field office, which plays a critical role in investigating workplace hazards and enforcing safety rules, would leave vulnerable workers with even fewer protections. Without on-the-ground enforcement, response times to workplace accidents may lag, and companies operating dangerous facilities may face less scrutiny.” In addition, former director of OSHA David Michaels said of the Trump administration’s push to close Louisiana’s only OSHA office, “These closures will result in more injuries, illnesses and deaths.”

Getting Legal Help in Louisiana After a Serious Workplace Accident Occurs

Despite the news regarding Louisiana’s only OSHA office potentially being closed, it is important for Louisiana workers to know that they still have protections under Louisiana state workers’ compensation laws. When a person is injured on the job in Louisiana, they may be entitled to important financial benefits to keep them on their feet while they recover from their injury, and help them return to their regular work. In order to determine whether you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in Louisiana, it is best to speak with an experienced Louisiana workers’ compensation lawyer about your case.

The experienced Louisiana workers’ compensation lawyers at the law firm Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC are here to help injured workers in Louisiana get compensation due under Louisiana workers’ compensation laws. Contact Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC and speak to a lawyer about your case now.

Source:

ehn.org/osha-plans-to-shutter-louisiana-office-despite-rising-workplace-deaths-in-cancer-alley