California Senate Oks Limits On Workers’ Comp For Pro Athletes

The state Senate has approved a bill to prevent professional athletes who spent most of their careers with teams in other states from filing workers’ compensation claims in California. AB1309, by Democratic Assemblyman Henry Perea of Fresno, would block future claims for non-specific cumulative injuries.Supporters say the claims increase the burden on the state workers’ compensation system and could raise insurance costs. They say the athletes can get compensation for their injuries in the state where they were primarily employed. Opponents say the measure would let the owners of football, baseball, basketball, hockey and soccer teams avoid liability for legitimate injuries.