The Governor has extended the existing PTSD presumption. SB 623 postpones the sunsetting of the presumption that PTSD is an occupational condition for some first responders until January 1, 2029. The PTSD presumption enacted in 2019 was set to end January 1, 2025. SB 623 also expands the PTSD presumption to include firefighters for the State Hospitals, Developmental Services, Veterans Affairs and Military departments.

The Governor also signed AB 336 which requires contractors to include the classification codes they used to secure work comp coverage when applying for a license. The bill requires contractors renewing their license to certify on the renewal application the three work comp class codes for which their highest estimated payroll is reported. The bill also requires the Contractors State License Board to provide class codes for licensees on its website. The requirements take effect Jan. 1, 2024.

The Governor has also vetoed some significant bills. AB 1213 would have extended the TD cap by up to 90 days in cases where an injured worker successfully appealed a UR determination denying or modifying a treatment request. Currently injured workers are allowed to receive up to 104 weeks of TD benefits. AB 1213 would have allowed TD benefits between the date of a UR denial and the date treatment is authorized not be included in the calculation of aggregate disability payments. The Governor vetoed this proposal as the creation of UR was done to ensure timely treatment and prompt payment in the first place.

Additional proposals vetoed by the Governor include AB 1145, which would have added medical professionals working for the Corrections and Rehabilitation, Developmental Services and State Hospitals departments to the to the existing PTSD presumption; AB 699, which would have added additional presumptions to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department boating safety unit; and SB 391which would have added peace officers with the Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Recreation departments to the list of first responders covered by presumption.