Bill Positions

Bill Number: SB 608

Bill Title: Workers' Compensation - Temporary Total Disability - Incarcerated Employees

Bill Sponsor(s): Sen. Kittleman

Subject: Workers' Compensation

Committee: FIN

Bill Summary: This bill would have provided that an employer or insurer is not liable for temporary total disability payments to a covered employee while the employee is incarcerated.

History: Simiar legislation was introduced in 2006 (SB 801/HB 1018) and in 2005 (SB 227). The bills did not pass the General Assembly. In 2009 SB 520 died in the Finance Committee without a vote. In 2010 this bill was withdrawn by the sponsor.

Chamber Position: Support

Position Summary: Because prisoners have removed themselves from the labor market, and would not earn wages absent their work injury, there is no reason they should collect wage loss benefits while incarcerated. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber supported this bill.

Position Statement: To view the Chamber's complete position statement, click here (pdf).

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.