AR HB1488

Clarifies that requiring employees to perform work with knowledge of possible COVID-19 exposure does not constitute intentional conduct removing employer protections under workers' compensation law.

Establishes COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 as potential occupational diseases if all standard occupational disease requirements are met, creating exception to general rule excluding ordinary diseases of life.

Applies retroactively to March 11, 2020, and expires May 1, 2023, covering workers' compensation claims for illness or injury sustained from COVID-19 outbreak.

Requires claimants to establish causal connection between employment and COVID-19 illness by preponderance of evidence to receive compensation.

Declares emergency to protect employees and employers from COVID-19 threat, enabling businesses to remain open and reduce unemployment in Arkansas.