Workers, local officials rally for new construction safety law in New York City

More than 200 construction workers, union officials, labor leaders and supporters rallied in support of a package of bills intended to strengthen construction site safety in New York City. Some were arrested during the demonstration.

Citing a rise in construction-related deaths, supporters called on the City Council to pass the Construction Safety Act. This legislation would provide for professional training to improve the safety of construction workers and the public, supporters say.

Thirty people have died in construction accidents in New York City in the last two years, according to a union spokesperson. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has opposed the proposed apprenticeship requirement, instead suggesting that the city increase site inspections, tighten up regulations, and increase penalties. De Blasio said the apprenticeship requirement might not be practical for non-union job sites.