Committee advances bill to extend workers' compensation coverage to education employees

A Senate Finance and Taxation Education committee advanced legislation to extend workers' compensation coverage to education employees, the panel chair announced after a roll-call vote that returned 14 ayes and 0 nays.

Senator Gabbana, who moved the favorable report, told the committee that many people are surprised state education employees lack workers' compensation coverage and said the bill generally moves the education language toward the model used for state employees. "Many people are surprised to learn that our state education employees do not have workers compensation coverage for on the job injuries," Senator Gabbana said. He moved the bill for a favorable report and Senator Orr seconded the motion.

Committee members who spoke in support described on‑the‑job risks for teachers and other school staff and said the current alternatives are convoluted. Senator Smitherman, a former coach and school employee, said the measure is long overdue and tied the issue to teacher retention: "I can't think of any bill anymore important than this bill in our legislative session right now — we've got a shortage of teachers, we still trying to keep people in the profession." Senators also raised related concerns such as sick leave accumulation and interim staffing challenges for teachers.

Senator Hatcher and others recounted experiences in early‑childhood settings where staff are injured assisting children with behavioral and physical needs. The sponsor noted a prior iteration of the bill moved quickly in the Senate last year but encountered extended debate in the House; he said much of the language was negotiated in conference and that he expects further progress this session.

The committee gave the bill a favorable report by roll call. The motion on the floor was moved by Senator Gabbana and seconded by Senator Orr. The committee did not adopt any amendments during the discussion recorded on the transcript.

The measure will proceed through the legislative process toward floor consideration and any required committee stops in the other chamber.