The bill amends the Idaho Code concerning worker's compensation by introducing a new definition for "member of an employer's family," which encompasses individuals related to the employer by blood, adoption, or marriage, including grandchildren. It also removes the previous definition of this term from Section 72-212. The amendments aim to enhance clarity and accuracy in the legislation, ensuring that the worker's compensation framework reflects current employment practices and relationships. Additionally, the bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date for the changes.

In another aspect, the bill addresses the confidentiality of communications for first responders, establishing that peer support counseling communications cannot be disclosed without consent, except in specific situations like threats of suicide or criminal acts. It allows first responders diagnosed with post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) to receive compensation linked to their employment, provided the diagnosis is made by a qualified professional. The bill also stipulates that psychological injuries must be accompanied by physical injuries to be compensable and clarifies the presumption of occupational diseases for firefighters, including certain cancers diagnosed after specified employment periods. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes various insertions and deletions to refine legal language and definitions.

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