Occupational safety and health

In Washington's competitive 3rd Congressional District race, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and challenger John Braun have clashed over the safety record of Braun Northwest, the family-owned emergency vehicle manufacturer Braun leads. The dispute centers on two 2024 incidents: a worker's death, ruled accidental by inspectors, and injuries to teenage apprentices that led to citations and fines for child labor and safety violations. Gluesenkamp Perez's ads accuse Braun of inadequate response and oversight; Braun disputes the characterizations and says the company has invested heavily in safety. The deceased worker's son has publicly criticized Braun, while an injured former apprentice has defended the company. Braun Northwest was cited again this week for a separate injury.

The New Haven Board of Alders Education Committee has formally called for "immediate action" from New Haven Public Schools leadership after months of testimony about hazardous building conditions. At a September 29 workshop, the board heard nearly five hours of testimony describing failing HVAC systems, leaks, mold, pests, broken doors and windows, temperature extremes, bathroom problems, and faulty electrical outlets. Health, fire, and emergency management officials confirmed the severity of the conditions, but the committee said district leadership offered no concrete plan to address them.

In a letter sent Friday, Oct. 9, the Alders outlined 16 high-priority steps to be completed within 30 days, plus additional measures within 60 days. District officials and Mayor Justin Elicker acknowledged the problems, attributing them to decades of chronic underfunding that has left routine maintenance insufficient to manage deteriorating infrastructure. Superintendent Madeline Negrón said the district would review the committee's recommendations and consult the Board of Education on next steps. Alders have requested a progress update at the next education committee meeting on Oct. 28.