SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation delivering workers’ compensation benefits to health care and public safety workers who contract COVID-19 in the line of duty. In particular, the legislation provides a presumption that if these workers contract COVID, they did so during their employment and are covered by workers’ compensation.
Rep. John Persell (DFL – Bemidji) voted in favor of the legislation and issued the following statement:
“First responders and health care workers put themselves at risk every day to keep Minnesotans safe and healthy. These individuals deserve to know that we have their backs. We owe it to them to ensure they are covered by workers’ compensation if they contract COVID-19.
A copy of the legislation can be found here, and a video recording of the House floor session can be found on the House Public Information YouTube page. The legislation is expected to be passed by the Minnesota Senate and signed by Governor Walz.