Bill > SB5043

This bill expands industrial insurance coverage for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to include correctional facility workers, creating a legal presumption that PTSD is an occupational disease for these employees. Specifically, the bill establishes that correctional facility workers who have been fully employed for at least 90 consecutive days are presumed to have developed PTSD as a work-related condition. This presumption can be challenged with contrary evidence and extends for three calendar months per year of employment, up to a maximum of 60 months after leaving the job. The bill defines a correctional facility worker as an employee of the Department of Corrections working in a total confinement facility, excluding contracted facilities. If a correctional facility worker's PTSD claim is appealed and ultimately approved, the bill mandates that the opposing party pay all reasonable appeal costs, including attorneys' fees. The new provisions are similar to existing rules for firefighters, law enforcement officers, and public safety telecommunicators, and are designed to recognize the potentially traumatic nature of working in correctional facilities. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, providing time for implementation and preparation by relevant state agencies.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5043&Year=2025&Initiative=false