SAINT PAUL, MN – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives approved legislation delivering workers’ compensation benefits to health care and public safety workers who contract COVID-19 in the line of duty. Using unprecedented procedure, most legislators voted remotely in order to comply with recommendations from the Minnesota Department of Health.
Rep. Erin Koegel released this statement:
“Our brave first responders show up every day ready to do what’s needed to ensure the safety and health of Minnesotans. It was up to us to help them at this critical time when the risk of COVID-19 is present and could affect their livelihood and health. Today, I voted to approve workers’ compensation for our first responders should there be a need.”
The legislation is the result of an agreement reached by legislative leaders in the Minnesota House and Senate and Governor Walz. Occupations covered in the bill include firefighters, peace officers, paramedics, EMTs, health care workers, correctional officers, and childcare providers who are caring for children of first responders and health care workers under the Governor’s executive orders.
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.