Special Session Won't Tackle Presumption Bill

Monday, July 20, 2020 | 0

A Connecticut workers' compensation presumption law, demanded by frontline workers for months, won't be part of a special legislative session set for next week, a news outlet reported.

Gov. Ned Lamont

The CT Mirror reported that a presumption that sickened essential workers contracted the coronavirus through work will probably have to wait until a regular session begins in September.

Gov. Ned Lamont by law sets the agenda for the special session and, despite behind-the-scenes lobbying, he has said that lawmakers will examine a police accountability measure, bills extending the governor's executive orders regarding the pandemic, and insulin cost-control legislation.

Frontline workers have said a presumption is needed because health care, transit and first responder employees are falling victim to the virus, but most claims have been denied or have yet to be adjudicated. Many workers have had to use personal leave time to quarantine or recover, and others have returned to work sick, reports have said.

The news outlet reported 922 COVID-related comp claims have been filed in the state, and just 24 have gone to a hearing.

Legislators in seven states have passed some type of presumption law, and governors and state agencies have issued orders or rules in seven more, covering frontline or essential workers.