The bill SB278 Engrossed amends Section 16-1-18.1 of the Code of Alabama 1975 and introduces Chapter 1A, which establishes the Public Education Employee Injury Compensation Program, the Public Education Employee Injury Compensation Trust Fund, and the Public Education Employee Injury Compensation Board. This legislation aims to provide compensation to full-time public education employees, including adult bus drivers, who sustain injuries while on the job. Key amendments include the clarification of definitions, such as "employee" and "on-the-job injury," and the modification of the injury reporting process, requiring employees to notify their supervisors within five working days. The bill also ensures that employees' salaries and benefits are maintained for up to 90 working days following an injury, enhancing support for those affected by work-related injuries.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant changes to existing laws, including the deletion of provisions that allowed employers to extend sick leave beyond 90 days and the reimbursement process for employers due to employee absences. It mandates that employers notify injured employees of their rights within seven calendar days and establishes uniform injury reporting forms. The Public Education Employee Injury Compensation Board will consist of three members appointed by relevant authorities and will oversee the program, ensuring that benefits provided to injured employees are no less than those under the Alabama Workers' Compensation Act. The bill also outlines a structured process for dispute resolution, evidence standards, and the selection of hearing officers, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 16-1-18
Engrossed: 16-1-18