CA AB2616

Establishes that methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) skin infections occurring during employment at acute care hospitals are compensable injuries for hospital employees who provide direct patient care.

Creates a presumption that MRSA skin infections developing or manifesting during employment arise out of and in the course of employment, though this presumption is disputable.

Extends MRSA infection presumption coverage to hospital employees for 60 days following termination of service from their last date worked.

Prohibits attributing MRSA skin infections to any pre-existing disease or skin infection.

Exempts MRSA skin infections for hospital employees from physician causation reporting requirements in workers' compensation permanent disability evaluations.