CT SB00321

Expands workers' compensation coverage for post-traumatic stress injury (PTSD) diagnoses to all employees effective January 1, 2023, building upon existing coverage for first responders and health care workers.

Requires a mental health professional's diagnosis of PTSD meeting American Psychiatric Association diagnostic criteria as a direct result of a qualifying event to establish compensability.

Defines qualifying events for all employees as including witnessing death or serious injury, viewing deceased minors, or witnessing traumatic physical injuries resulting in permanent disfigurement occurring during the course of employment on or after January 1, 2023.

Limits workers' compensation benefits to a maximum of 52 weeks from diagnosis date and prohibits awards beyond four years from the qualifying event; combined weekly benefits cannot exceed average weekly wage.

Establishes employer notice and payment procedures requiring employers to contest liability within 28 days of receiving a written claim notice or be presumed to have accepted compensability.