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HB 217

Workers' Compensation - Occupational Disease Presumptions - Hypertension

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Andrew Pruski and 1 co-sponsor

HB 217 presumes hypertension is work-related for certain Maryland workers, expanding compensation eligibility without requiring causation proof.

Hearing 2/26 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 217

Legislative bill overview

HB 217 proposes to establish a presumption that hypertension (high blood pressure) is an occupational disease for certain workers in Maryland, meaning workers in covered professions would not need to prove their condition was work-related to receive workers' compensation benefits. The bill creates a legal presumption that shifts the burden of proof, making it easier for affected workers to access compensation for hypertension-related claims.

Why is this important

Hypertension is a common condition among high-stress occupations, and establishing a presumption could significantly expand workers' compensation coverage for thousands of Maryland workers. This would increase both the accessibility of benefits for workers and the costs borne by employers and insurers, potentially affecting workplace compensation insurance rates and business expenses.

Potential points of contention

  • Causation concerns: Medical science does not definitively link hypertension to specific occupations in most cases; the presumption may cover workers whose hypertension stems from non-occupational factors like genetics, diet, or age.
  • Fiscal impact: Expanding workers' compensation coverage increases costs for employers and insurers, potentially raising insurance premiums and business operating expenses across affected industries.
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of which occupations qualify for the presumption and what evidence triggers it will determine how broadly or narrowly benefits are distributed.

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

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