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SB 343

Regards workers' compensation coverage-urban search and rescue

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Nathan Manning

SB 343 extends Ohio workers' compensation coverage to urban search and rescue team members to protect emergency responders from occupational injury costs.

Referred to committee
#employment #workers'compensation
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Bill Summary · SB 343

Legislative bill overview

SB 343 would extend workers' compensation coverage to members of urban search and rescue (USAR) teams in Ohio. The bill specifically addresses the occupational injury and illness protection for volunteers and paid personnel engaged in emergency search and rescue operations in urban environments.

Why is this important

USAR personnel face significant occupational hazards including structural collapses, hazardous materials exposure, and traumatic injuries while performing life-saving operations. Without explicit workers' compensation coverage, injured USAR members may lack financial protection for medical expenses and lost wages, creating a gap in occupational safety net for these emergency responders.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: Whether the bill specifies how workers' compensation costs will be funded (municipal budgets, state appropriations, or insurance premium adjustments)
  • Volunteer vs. paid distinction: Clarification of coverage scope—whether it applies equally to volunteer and paid USAR personnel, and how volunteer coverage affects municipal liability
  • Definition of USAR: The precise definition of which teams and operations qualify as "urban search and rescue," potentially affecting coverage boundaries and costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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