WA SB5043

Extends workers' compensation coverage for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an occupational disease to correctional facility workers, adding them to existing coverage for firefighters, law enforcement officers, public safety telecommunicators, and direct care registered nurses

Creates a prima facie presumption that PTSD is an occupational disease for fully compensated correctional facility workers who have been employed for at least 90 consecutive days in Washington state

Defines "correctional facility worker" as a Department of Corrections employee working at a total confinement facility, excluding contract-operated facilities

Presumption extends after employment termination for three calendar months per year worked, up to a maximum of 60 months after last date of employment

Requires opposing party to pay all reasonable appeal costs including attorneys' fees and witness fees when a successful claim involves this presumption; effective date is January 1, 2026