Calif. law creates COVID-19 presumption for disability retirement

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday signed legislation that would entitle certain classes of workers to special benefits if they die or become disabled due to COVID-19.

A.B. 845, which unanimously passed both the Assembly and Senate, would create a rebuttable presumption that public safety, firefighters and medical workers who are disabled or deceased as a result of the virus to have access to public retirement system benefits, including pension, disability and death benefits.

The presumption, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2022, will end Jan. 1, 2023.