Tuesday, April 22, 2025 from Natural Stone Institute

Jim Hieb of the Natural Stone Institute (NSI) recently helped lead a key presentation with the Silica Safety Coalition for the staff of California State Senator Menjivar, sponsor of SB 20. This proposed legislation would create a fabricator certification system and restrict slab sales to certified fabricators – an important step toward curbing the spread of silicosis, especially given limited resources at Cal/OSHA.

NSI member Nate Kolenski shared, “We provided critical education and hands-on knowledge to someone shaping the legislative future of our business. Their thoughtful questions showed they now better understand how the details of SB 20 could impact the industry, for better or worse.”

This effort is a clear example of NSI’s ongoing leadership in advocacy, ensuring member concerns are heard at the highest levels. Next steps are now in the hands of lobbyists and legal experts, with NSI participating with the Coalition and other industry trade associations continuing to engage and push for a balanced outcome that prioritizes both safety and industry viability.

Learn more about SB 20