Bill would expand workers' comp coverage to mental illness

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.nebraska.tv/Global/story.asp?S=8080026

Associated Press - March 27, 2008 4:35 PM ET

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Employees who witness violent acts and suffer mental illnesses as a result could be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.

Senator Abbie Cornett of Bellevue says a violent act such as the Omaha mall shootings in December is a good example of why a bill (LB1082) is needed.

Several senators raised concerns Thursday about how much the proposal could cost the state. Senators didn't vote on the bill before adjourning for lunch and then moving on to other measures.

Cornett said that while Von Maur stepped up and paid for employees' mental health treatment, other companies might not.

Cornett got the idea for the bill after a court case involving a state trooper who killed himself after the 2002 Norfolk bank murders.

On the Net:

Nebraska Legislature: http://www.nebraskalegislature.gov