In a joint letter to Senator Tom Harkin, ASSE, AIHA and National Safety Council expressed the urgency for continued support in the funding of OSHA and NIOSH to prevent worker injuries and illnesses. The agencies expressed concern that if funds are reduced, efforts to protect workers will be jeopardized. A recent press release states that the funding will help prevent proposed efforts to eliminate funding for several vital programs including NIOSH's Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing sector program and Education and Research Centers.