Connecticut Senate Bill SB00107

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/15
• Refer: 1/16/15

Caption

An Act Concerning Mental Health And The Definition Of "personal Injury" Under The Workers' Compensation Statutes.

Impact

If passed, SB00107 would significantly alter the landscape of workers' compensation in the state. By expanding the definition of personal injury to encompass mental health issues, the bill would create new pathways for employees to claim compensation for work-induced psychological distress. This repositioning could lead to increased awareness and treatment of mental health conditions among workers, aligning workplace policies more closely with contemporary understandings of health and safety.

Summary

SB00107, introduced by Senator Looney, seeks to amend the definition of 'personal injury' within the workers' compensation statutes to include certain job-related mental or emotional impairments. This change is aimed at ensuring that individuals suffering from these mental health issues due to their work conditions can access the necessary benefits provided under workers' compensation. This legislation highlights a growing recognition of mental health issues as legitimate concerns within the workplace, particularly as they relate to employee welfare.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill may face contention from various sectors, particularly those who argue that expanding the definition of personal injury could lead to an influx of claims that may burden the workers' compensation system. There are concerns that this might intensify the difficulties in adjudicating claims and potentially increase premiums for employers as they navigate the implications of this expanded coverage. Opponents might also question the criteria and standards for evaluating job-related mental impairments, which could lead to inconsistencies in applications and outcomes.