HB 1271 Summary

• Amends the definition of "compensable injury" in North Dakota law to require medical evidence supported by objective medical findings for all workplace injuries.

• Expands coverage to include mental or psychological conditions caused by a single work-related traumatic event, series of traumatic events, or period of high work-related stress or anxiety.

• Creates employer immunity from civil liability for COVID-19 exposure injuries if the employer was in substantial compliance with or consistent with applicable federal, state, or municipal COVID-19 regulations and orders at the time of exposure.

• Applies retroactively to workers' compensation claims and civil actions filed after March 13, 2020, regardless of the date of injury.

• Declares the Act to be an emergency measure.