WA SB5882

Extends workers' compensation coverage for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an occupational disease to local 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 work-related for fully compensated local correctional facility workers who have been employed for at least 90 consecutive days in Washington state

Allows the presumption to be rebutted by a preponderance of the evidence and extends coverage for three months per year of employment after termination, up to a maximum of 60 months

Requires payment of all reasonable appeal costs, including attorneys' fees and witness fees, to claimants when a final decision allows benefits under this presumption

Defines "local correctional facility worker" as an individual working at a correctional facility as defined in RCW 70.48.020; effective date is January 1, 2027