Ohio Dems Fight to Protect Workers
Ohio Senate Democratic Leader Kenny Yuko is calling for more coronavirus testing in all Ohio prisons and nursing homes, saying, "Ohio's essential workers deserve every possible safety measure. This is especially critical in facilities where residents are confined together and distancing is nearly impossible.
"We've seen how quickly this virus spreads through nursing homes and prisons, yet frontline workers enter these buildings every day to do their jobs without complaint. The least we can do is provide adequate testing."
State Rep. Lisa Sobecki and state Rep. Kristin Boggs testified this week in support of legislation that would allow employees infected by COVID-19, while working, to file Workers' Compensation claims.
"In many cases, Ohioans faced uncertainty and risked their health, and the health of their families, to continue to work 'essential' jobs. For example, Becky Buckeye on Alexis Street, working at a grocery store, was asked to step-up during the midst of a crisis where there was not adequate testing and PPE," said Sobecki. "When Becky contracts COVID-19 because she was working outside of the home, just like in many other circumstances, she should be able to file a claim for Workers' Comp."
"Those working on the frontlines during this pandemic have been heroes," said Boggs. "The state deemed these employees essential to keep Ohio running. After sacrificing their health to keep Ohioans safe, fed and supplied, they should not have to fear the economic consequence of contracting COVID-19."
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