Connecticut House Bill HB06279

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/21
• Refer: 1/29/21

Caption

An Act Making First Responder Dive Teams And Canine Search And Rescue Personnel Eligible For Workers' Compensation Benefits.

Impact

The enactment of HB 6279 would have significant implications for state employment laws as it would provide essential workers' compensation benefits to a previously unrecognized group of first responders. This change is expected to not only enhance safety standards for these teams but also encourage recruitment and retention by ensuring that personnel have access to necessary benefits. Providing workers' compensation can also reduce financial burdens on departments that rely on these responders during emergencies, thereby promoting a more robust public safety framework.

Summary

House Bill 6279 proposes to amend Title 7 of the general statutes to make first responder dive teams and canine search and rescue personnel eligible for workers' compensation benefits. The primary objective of this bill is to ensure that these critical personnel receive the necessary support and protection in the event of job-related injuries or incidents. By extending workers' compensation coverage, the bill acknowledges the hazardous nature of their work and the circumstances that these dedicated teams face in the line of duty.

Contention

While the bill aims to support first responders, potential points of contention may arise regarding the criteria for eligibility and the implications for funding these benefits. Discussions around budget allocations to accommodate the proposed benefits could lead to debates, especially if it requires financial adjustments within existing public safety budgets. Furthermore, there could be discussions on whether other similar roles should also be included under this coverage, creating a broader dialogue on workers' compensation policies for emergency services.