The Voluntary Protection Program Participants’ Association (VPPPA) has named Courtney Malveaux, as its government affairs counsel, the organization announced at its annual meeting, held August 25-28 in National Harbor, MD.

The move gives VPPPA lobbying and political networking muscle at the federal and state level at a time when supporters of OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) are concerned about adequate funding at the federal level, a fall-off in federally-approved VPP sites, and an overall loss of momentum in VPP’s growth, which skyrocketed during the George W. Bush administration and John Henshaw’s enthusiastic endorsement and campaigning for VPP during his tenure as OSHA chief in the Bush years.

Malveaux, a Richmond attorney, is taking the lead in the organization’s efforts to build state and federal support for OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Programs. He previously served as Virginia’s Labor Commissioner and is the immediate past president of the National Association of Government Labor Officials (NAGLO). Currently, he serves on Virginia’s Safety and Health Codes Board, which implements Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) policies.

“We are excited to bring Courtney Malveaux into this lead role for our organization,” said VPPPA Chairperson Mike Maddox. “Mr. Malveaux brings a breadth of experience on OSHA issues, but more importantly, he understands how to leverage vital partnerships with business leaders, policymakers and other associations. We look forward to having a greater impact at the federal and state level.”