Provides relative to determinations of average weekly wage of professional athletes. (8/15/10) (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
If enacted, SB 17 clarifies how earnings are calculated for professional athletes when they experience a work-related injury, thereby ensuring that these individuals are compensated based on their contractual salaries regardless of their employment status at the time of injury. The bill aims to protect professional athletes by allowing them to maintain income continuity when they fall injured, whether during competitive seasons or during off-season training.
Senate Bill 17 aims to amend the definition of 'wages' in Louisiana's workers' compensation laws specifically for professional athletes. The proposed legislation stipulates that for athletes under an annual contract, their average weekly wage at the time of a work-related injury will be calculated based on their annual salary divided by fifty-two weeks. This legislative change comes as a response to current laws that focus on actual earnings rather than contractual agreements, thereby introducing a specific provision for athletes.
The sentiment surrounding SB 17 appears to be generally positive, particularly among those advocating for the rights of professional athletes. Supporters argue it provides a necessary adjustment to workers' compensation policies ensuring fairness for athletes, who may otherwise be at a disadvantage due to current regulations. However, discussions may also consider the broader implications on the workers' compensation system, thus suggesting some nuanced perspectives among legislators.
Notable points of contention regarding SB 17 may include concerns on how it could affect the overall fairness of the workers' compensation system, especially in relation to non-athletic employees. Some may argue that prioritizing contractual earnings for athletes could lead to inequities in compensation standards that diverge from common workers' benefits, potentially sparking discussions on whether similar arrangements should be explored for other professions with unique compensation structures.