SB0471 Summary

• Extends disability benefits for public employees injured in the line of duty by up to 60 additional days if COVID-19 circumstances between March 9, 2020 and December 31, 2020 hindered their physical recovery.

• Requires horse racing organizations with 10+ employees to enter into collective bargaining agreements with labor organizations seeking to represent employees, including card check certification and mandatory arbitration if negotiations fail within 60 days.

• Mandates labor agreements include minimum 3-year terms, prohibition on strikes, and restrictions on subcontracting without union consent.

• Adds aggravated battery offense for merchants enforcing health or safety guidelines during governor-declared disasters or public health emergencies, covering a 6-month period after declaration.