WHEREAS:

Every state has its own workers compensation laws and benefit levels. In varying degrees, all the state programs can be characterized as seriously inadequate. Lost wages are not fully replaced, employers are not required to continue employee benefits such as health insurance, contested claims can result in unacceptably long delays before receiving benefits, and only about half the states grant employees the fight to choose their own physician in the event of an on the job injury or illness; and

WHEREAS:

Only about 5% of those severely disabled from occupational disease receive workers compensation benefits; and

WHEREAS:

The record of states adopting the 19 essential recommendations made by the 1972 National Commission on Workmen's Compensation has been very poor; and

WHEREAS:

Employers should no longer be allowed to use the exclusive remedy principle to shield themselves from liability for actions which are substantially certain to cause injury and illness.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That in the absence of a national workers compensation system, this 27th International Convention reaffirms AFSCME's support for federal minimum standards which states must meet; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That as part of that effort, AFSCME will work for the enactment of comprehensive federal compensation to occupational disease victims; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That all councils and locals work in their respective states to improve workers compensation programs.

SUBMITTED BY:

Renee Gaudino, President
Delegate
Local 3183, Council 97

Peter Fears, Director
Delegate
Council 97
Phoenix, Arizona