CT HB05387

Effective October 1, 2020, defines "underwater search and rescue team" as volunteer or municipal employees who conduct underwater searches for property, evidence, and drowned persons and assist in water-related rescues at municipal request.

Defines "volunteer canine search and rescue team" as an individual and dog trained and certified by a nonprofit canine search and rescue organization that is a member of the National Association of Search and Rescue, who perform operations without compensation at police or fire department request.

Classifies active members of underwater search and rescue teams and volunteer canine search and rescue teams as state employees for purposes of workers' compensation coverage under chapter 568.

Provides workers' compensation benefits for death, disability, or injury incurred while performing authorized search and rescue duties for municipalities.