Walz extends COVID-19 workers’ comp eligibility for first responders, front-line workers

ST. PAUL, Minn. (WKBT) — Gov. Tim Walz signed a law Monday extending workers’ compensation eligibility for emergency first responders and front-line workers.
The law extends Chapter 12 of House File 2253, which had been set to expire on May 1. It ensures that front-line workers, including doctors and nurses, firefighters, paramedics, police, long-term care workers, home health workers, correctional officers, and child care providers continue to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if they test positive for COVID-19.
The law adopts the Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council made to the state Legislature.
It is based on the presumption that a COVID-19 infection is work-related unless the employer is able to prove that infection happened elsewhere. It includes new penalty provisions if an employee collects improper payment for medical services.

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