Workers’ compensation: COVID-19: critical workers.
The key impact of AB 1751 lies in its enhancement of protections for critical workers, which includes active firefighting members and specific employees at state hospitals. By maintaining presumptiveness for COVID-19 claims, the bill ensures these workers receive necessary benefits without the arduous burden of proving employment-related causation under stressful conditions. Moreover, it allows for better access to temporary disability benefits and mandates that sick leave be exhausted before accessing other forms of compensation, thus streamlining the process for affected workers.
Assembly Bill 1751, introduced by Assemblymember Daly, amends sections of the Labor Code that pertain to workers' compensation in response to COVID-19 for critical workers. The bill extends the regulations regarding COVID-19-related injuries until January 1, 2024. This includes provisions for first responders and healthcare workers, whereby if they contract COVID-19 under specific circumstances related to their employment, their claim for workers' compensation can be presumed compensable. The extension aims to recognize the ongoing risks that frontline workers face in the course of their duties during the pandemic.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1751 is predominantly supportive, reflecting the community's recognition of the sacrifices made by essential workers during the pandemic. Organizations representing healthcare and emergency services generally support the bill as it acknowledges and seeks to safeguard the welfare of these individuals. Nevertheless, some concerns exist regarding the potential financial implications for employers, who may face increased workers' compensation claims due to the extended presumption of coverage.
Notable points of contention include discussions about the financial liabilities that may arise for employers due to the expanded scope of COVID-19 claims. Additionally, while the bill is favored in many circles, there are concerns from certain industry groups regarding its long-term sustainability and the appropriateness of maintaining such presumptions in light of a changing public health landscape. Furthermore, there is an ongoing conversation about the adequacy of protections for non-critical workers not covered under this bill.