WHEREAS:

Most state workers compensation programs are inadequate in providing lost wages and other benefits to injured or ill workers; and

WHEREAS:

Many of the recent attempts to "reform" state programs have been employer-sponsored proposals to reduce existing benefit levels; and

WHEREAS:

Only a small fraction of those who are disabled by occupational diseases receive compensation because it is difficult under existing laws to prove that certain illnesses are contracted by exposures to toxic agents while on the job.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals work in their respective states to improve lost wages and benefit levels under the workers compensation programs; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME councils and locals push for changes in state programs to include provisions that presume certain illnesses contracted by workers in particular occupations are caused by exposure to workplace toxins and stress and are therefore compensable; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME work for the enactment of comprehensive federal compensation which would provide for occupational disease victims.

SUBMITTED BY:

George Popyack, International Vice President
Council Director and Delegate
Virginia Diogo, Council President and Delegate
Council 57
Belmont, California