AK HB45

Creates a presumption that workers' compensation claims for contagious diseases are compensable if the employee works in a covered occupation, receives a diagnosis or positive test, and had work-related in-person contact with the public within 14 days before diagnosis during a gubernatorially declared disaster emergency.

Presumption applies only to emergency medical technicians, firefighters, health care providers, paramedics, peace officers, child care facility employees, grocery store employees, teachers, farmer's market employees and vendors, and other occupations the commissioner determines pose similar exposure risk.

Presumption may be rebutted only by clear and convincing evidence that the employee contracted the disease through non-work-related exposure.

Provision is retroactive to November 15, 2020, for emergency medical technicians, firefighters, health care providers, paramedics, and peace officers.

Act takes effect immediately.