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RELEASE: Rep. Sundin supports COVID-19 workers’ compensation for frontline workers

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

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.

“With cases of COVID-19 continuing to rise, it's very important to take care of the people who are going to be taking care of us in the coming days, weeks and months. This bill will ensure frontline workers who become afflicted by this condition can receive the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve,” said Rep. Mike Sundin (DFL – Esko). “I’m proud first responders, health care workers, folks in the business community, the Walz administration and legislators could all come together to take urgent action helping safeguard the economic wellbeing of those putting themselves most at risk.”

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 legislation is expected to be passed by the Minnesota Senate and signed by Governor Walz.