SAINT PAUL – 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 bill provides a presumption that if these workers contract COVID-19, they did so during the course of their employment and are covered by workers’ comp.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s inspiring to see Minnesotans looking out for one another, but in no case is this more evident than our health care workers, first responders, and others on the front lines putting their own health in jeopardy to protect the rest of us,” said Rep. Jack Considine (DFL – Mankato). “Today’s bill was another example of our bipartisan commitment to prioritize the health, safety, and economic security of Minnesotans during this unprecedented crisis.”
The legislation is the result of an agreement reached by legislative leaders in both the Minnesota House and Senate, as well as Governor Walz. The Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council provided preliminary approval of the measure on Monday.
Occupations covered by the presumption in the bill include firefighters, peace officers, paramedics, EMTs, health care workers, correctional officers, and child care providers who are caring for children of first responders and health care workers under the Governor’s executive orders.
In compliance with recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health, the majority of legislators voted remotely on the legislation.
A copy of the bill can be found here, and a video recording of the House floor session can be found on the House Public Information YouTube page. The Minnesota Senate also approved the bill and it is expected to be signed by Governor Walz.