The bill amends the Idaho Code concerning worker's compensation by introducing a new definition for "member of an employer's family," which now includes individuals related to the employer by blood, adoption, or marriage within the first degree of consanguinity, as well as grandchildren. It also removes the previous definition of this term from Section 72-212. Additionally, the bill updates various code references to enhance clarity and accuracy in the worker's compensation law. The urgency of these changes is underscored by the declaration of an emergency and the establishment of an effective date for the amendments, which aim to clarify definitions and streamline exemptions from coverage for specific employment types, including household domestic service and family member employment.

Moreover, the bill addresses the confidentiality of communications in professional contexts, particularly for first responders and mental health professionals. It ensures that communications during peer support counseling sessions for first responders are protected from disclosure without consent, except in certain situations like threats of suicide or criminal acts. The bill also provides immunity for certificated counselors and psychologists in schools regarding student communications, with exceptions for violence or abuse. Additionally, it introduces provisions for compensating psychological injuries, specifically post-traumatic stress injuries (PTSI) for first responders, under defined conditions. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to enhance the protection of sensitive communications and support mental health for first responders.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 72-102, 72-212, 9-203, 72-438, 72-451