The coronavirus outbreak has impacted the world in a variety of ways, including work. As a result, there have been many questions asked about workers’ compensation and how states across the country plan to handle the issue. Out of all states, 39 of them have either passed no legislation regarding the matter or have legislation pending. The remaining 12 states have taken the following actions:
- Alaska: Governor Mike Dunleavy signed legislation declaring a rebuttable presumption for first responders and other health care workers.
- Arkansas: Governor Asa Hutchinson issued an executive order creating a rebuttable presumption for first responders, other health care workers, and National Guard personnel assigned to COVID-19 duties.
- Florida: A memorandum was published by the state saying that first responders and health care workers “would be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits under Florida law.”
- Kentucky: Governor Andy Beshear issued an executive order creating a rebuttable presumption for all essential workers who contract COVID-19.
- Michigan: The Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency declared an emergency rule creating a rebuttable presumption for all first response employees.
- Minnesota: Governor Tim Walz signed legislation establishing a rebuttable presumption for first responders, health care workers, correctional officers and child care workers.
- Missouri: The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations issued an emergency rule declaring a rebuttable presumption for first responders but not other health care workers exposed to COVID-19. First responders are defined as “a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or an emergency medical technician (EMT).”
- New Mexico: Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an executive order creating a rebuttable presumption for state-employed first responders and volunteers to the health care system fighting the disease. Private sector employees are not covered.
- North Dakota: Governor Doug Burgum issued an executive order creating a rebuttable presumption for all first responders and health care workers. He also issued another order to cover funeral directors.
- Utah: The state enacted legislation creating a rebuttable presumption for all first responders.
- Washington: Governor Jay Inslee issued an executive order creating a rebuttable presumption for first responders and other health care workers.
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If you have become the victim of an on the job injury, it may be beneficial to speak with an attorney and the doctor that is treating you to determine how to make the process as easy as possible. AllianceMeds understands that a workplace accident can be challenging and is here to help. We will deliver your medication to your door using overnight delivery and cover any out of pocket expenses that may arise. If you have any questions about how we can help, contact AllianceMeds today.