Washington, DC – David A. Sampson, president and CEO of the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), released the following statement regarding the new workers compensation presumption executive order, which was announced today by California Governor Gavin Newsom:
“APCIA applauds the work of frontline health care workers, first responders, and many others who are helping our fellow Americans with the current crisis. However, Governor Newsom’s executive order on workers compensation is overly broad and could force employers in the public and private sector to cover COVID-19 cases not contracted in the workplace.
“APCIA believes this overly broad executive order jeopardizes the stability of the workers compensation system. Maintaining proof of a causal connection that a covered injury or disease was contracted in the workplace is essential for a stable no-fault workers compensation system for employers and employees alike.
“It is important to remember that under current law, workers who contract COVID-19 in the course of their employment are already able to file claims and receive benefits. Our members insure the majority of California employers and are firmly committed to delivering timely workers compensation benefits and protections during this extraordinary time.”
Source: APCIA