Worker’s Compensation - HB 488

HB 488 is a bill introduced by Representative A. Gentry with the aim of improving the current worker's compensation system. The bill proposes to exclude certain levels of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the blood from being used as evidence to assume that an injury was caused by the introduction of that substance. This move is a step towards ensuring that individuals who are injured on the job are not unfairly denied compensation simply because they have THC in their system.

The supporters of this bill argue that the presence of THC in the body does not necessarily indicate impairment, as THC can remain in a person's system for up to 30 days after use. Therefore, relying on the presence of THC in the blood as evidence of intoxication during the time of the injury is not scientifically sound.

HB 488 aims to address a gap in the worker's compensation system by ensuring that individuals who have THC in their system are not automatically denied compensation. This bill is a step towards a fairer and more just system that takes into account the latest scientific research on THC and its effects on the human body.