Are farm workers covered by workers compensation in California?
Yes, California is one of only fourteen states providing full workers’ compensation coverage for agricultural workers without exception. Unlike many states where agriculture is exempted, California’s Labor Code mandates comprehensive coverage for all farm and agricultural employees, including seasonal workers and undocumented workers, regardless of immigration status.
Employer Requirements for Agricultural Workers
All agricultural employers in California must carry workers’ compensation coverage for every employee, even with just one worker. This universal requirement includes coverage for medical treatment, wage replacement, permanent disability benefits, and death benefits. The state’s Uninsured Employer’s Benefit Trust Fund provides additional protection when employers fail to maintain required coverage.
Do domestic workers get workers compensation?
Domestic and household employees qualify for workers’ compensation coverage when they meet specific thresholds during the 90 days preceding an injury. Under Labor Code Section 3352(h), coverage is required if the employee worked 52 or more hours OR earned $100 or more in wages from the employer during this period.
Obtaining Coverage for Household Employees
- Coverage typically obtained as endorsement on homeowner’s insurance policy
- Required for nannies, housekeepers, caregivers, and personal attendants meeting thresholds
- Full-time classifications: indoor workers (20+ hours/week), outdoor workers (10+ hours/week)
- Employers paying $750+ quarterly wages must register with Employment Development Department
What about police officers with PTSD?
California’s SB 542 (Labor Code Section 3212.15) establishes presumptive PTSD coverage for first responders, meaning diagnosed PTSD is legally presumed work-related. This groundbreaking law, effective January 1, 2020 through January 1, 2029, shifts the burden of proof to insurance companies rather than requiring officers to prove work-relatedness.
Covered First Responder Categories
- Police officers and deputy sheriffs actively engaged in law enforcement
- City and county firefighters with active firefighting duties
- California Highway Patrol officers
- Peace officers under various Penal Code sections (830.1, 830.2, 830.32, others)
PTSD Benefits Under Presumptive Coverage
Qualifying first responders receive comprehensive benefits including full medical care reimbursement for mental health treatments, disability indemnity for time off work exceeding one week, and standard workers’ compensation death benefits. The presumption applies when PTSD develops during active service periods.