Employees who work from home have the right to file for workers’ compensation benefits. State lawmakers are considering a bill that seeks to expand the Ohio definition of a compensable work injury to better address remote work situations.
With more and more people working from home, it is in the best interests of governments (and workers) to drill down on what qualifies as a work injury. House Bill (HB) 447 seeks to do that by implementing a set of three criteria that remote workers must meet before they can access workers’ compensation benefits.
What does HB 447 do?
The legislation details the criteria for remote workers to qualify for workers’ comp benefits and other information about work injuries in the state. Take note that you must meet all three of these criteria to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
- The injury or disability arose due to the worker’s job.
- The injury or disability occurred because of a “special hazard” of the worker’s job activities.
- The injury or disability happened while the employee was performing a work activity for the exclusive benefit of their employer.
The bill currently awaits the approval of the Ohio Senate. If it passes and is signed into law, it can help more injured remote workers get workers’ compensation benefits. However, because it is new, it will remain open to different interpretations even if it passes, which could complicate a remote worker’s bid to obtain benefits.
Those currently seeking benefits for a remote work injury should consider learning more about Ohio workers’ compensation laws. The knowledge you gain can help you access your injury benefits successfully. If your claim results in a denial, it may be wise to seek legal guidance.