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California expands firefighter list for PTSD presumption

Posted On: Feb. 19, 2020 12:42 PM CST

firefighter

A California state senator has introduced legislation to add some classifications of firefighters to those who may seek workers compensation benefits for work injuries related to post-traumatic stress disorder.

S.B. 1047, introduced by Democratic Sen. Henry Stern, adds firefighters who are employed by the State Department of State Hospitals and Developmental Services and the Military Department to those covered by existing law for injuries, including PTSD, that develops or manifests during a period in which the injured worker served as a firefighter. The law requires compensation for PTSD for these firefighters to include full hospital, surgical, medical treatment, disability indemnity and death benefits.

Under the legislation, active firefighting members who work for the state agencies including the Departments of State Hospitals, Developmental Services and Military, as well as peace officers including security officer of the Department of Justice performing duties for a state hospital, are added to the list of workers entitled to PTSD coverage under workers compensation.

If signed into law, the legislation would apply to all injuries occurring on or after Jan. 1, 2020, and would remain into effect until Jan. 1, 2025.