NEW CALIFORNIA WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWS

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has signed a few new laws affecting workers’ compensation.

California Senate Bill Might Double WC Permanent Disability Benefits

A California Senate Bill (SB 773) introduced by Senators Florez and Steinberg could potentially double California workers’ compensation permanent disability benefits.  A large coalition of various groups is writing letters opposing this bill. 

State Disability Insurance Changes

The New Year will bring some changes to State Disability Insurance programs.

California Sick Leave Bill Appears Dead

Today (August 8, 2008), the Los Angeles Times reported that a bill to require employers to provide sick leave died.  The article said the bill had been sidetracked when the Senate Appropriations Committee determined it was too expensive.  The Assembly passed AB 2716 in May.

California Assembly Approves Bill to Require Sick Leave

On May 28, 2008, the California Assembly approved A.B. 2716, which would require employers to provide paid sick days.

California’s FEHA Puts Burden of Proof on Employee to Show Qualification

California’s Supreme Court has ruled that plaintiffs who claim disability discrimination under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) must prove they are qualified to perform the job’s essential function, with or without reasonable accommodation. Citation: Dwight D. Green vs. State of California.