Did Your Position As A First Responder Or Front-Line Worker Result In Your COVID-19 Illness?

The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry has issued a policy statement that spells out a presumption of cause and effect for first responders, front-line workers and other essential workers who became sick with COVID-19. Workers for whom COVID-19 is considered an occupational disease in this state include:

• Licensed peace officers (like policemen), firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
• Nurses and health care workers
• Officers, security workers, counselors, and others employed in the state or other government bodies in correctional facilities, detention centers and secure treatment centers
• Day care workers who were required to care for children of first responders and health care workers according to the governor’s executive orders

These workers who contracted the disease after April 8th, 2020, are covered by state compensation laws.

Furthermore, the burden of proof falls on the employer to disprove that an employee did not contract the disease because of their employment.

What About Essential Workers Who Are Not ‘Front-Line Workers’?

Workers in other industries, like retail workers, who have contracted the disease can still file for workers’ compensation. Furthermore, all employers are expected to adhere to the Department of Labor’s standards of operation.

Any employee who believes their COVID-19 illness came about because of their employment should notify their employer as soon as possible.

The state’s policy on COVID-19 and workers’ compensation spells out specific steps that employees must follow to ensure eligibility for benefits. Those who prove that they qualify may receive medical treatment, monetary benefits for wage loss and permanent disability, dependency benefits, and vocational rehabilitation benefits.

Make Sure You Get Benefits You Are Eligible For

Your workers’ compensation claim and any related appeals may be critical for you now and in the future – medically, financially and job-wise. To ensure that you do not make a mistake or otherwise miss out on the benefits that you qualify for, work closely with an attorney. Start your conversation with a lawyer as soon as possible. Your health and financial security may depend on it.

Get Answers And Help Now

If you are sick with COVID-19 or have tested positive and your job may have been the cause, contact Atkinson Law Office, P.A., at 651-333-3636 or through our online form to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.