August 11, 2020
Interstate Branching Legislation Signed in Colorado

Recently, legislation was enacted that permits Colorado state credit unions to open new branches in Colorado or in other states with 30 days written notice to the state Financial Services Commissioner. The measure, SB 20-068, also authorizes the Commissioner to enter into agreements with other state credit union regulators for the purposes of examination and supervision of out-of-state offices. If the Commissioner determines that opening a branch out-of-state is unsafe or unsound, they are authorized to issue a cease and desist order.

The legislation will be effective September 29, 2020.
Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Order Issued

Earlier this month, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont issued an executive order which allows for rebuttable presumption that workers who contracted COVID-19 between March 10, 2020 and May 20, 2020, contracted it on the job and are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Under the change, essential workers will receive the benefit of the doubt that they contracted the virus while working. The order further requires, the state Workers’ Compensation Commission to provide a monthly report on COVID-19 workers’ compensation claims to the Governor and the joint standing committees of the General Assembly.
COVID-19 Liability Immunity Legislation Passes in Georgia

The Georgia Legislature recently passed a bill providing Georgia businesses, including credit unions, with certain defenses and immunities for potential liability from civil lawsuits related to the spread of COVID-19. Under SB 359, no covered entity or individual will “be held liable for damages in an action involving a COVID-19 liability claim . . . unless the claimant proves that the actions . . . showed: gross negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, reckless infliction of harm, or intentional infliction of harm.” The legislation also requires entities to post signs warning of the inherent risks of contracting COVID-19.

SB 359 would take effect when signed by the Governor or on August 7, 2020 and would be effective until July 14, 2021.
Virginia Adopts COVID-19-Related Workplace Health and Safety Standard

On July 27, 2020, COVID-19 workplace safety regulations approved by the Virginia Safety and Health Codes Board took effect. The emergency regulations provide detailed coronavirus-related safety mandates that all companies in Virginia must comply with. According to the standard, it is “designed to establish requirements for employers to control, prevent, and mitigate the spread of” COVID-19 “to and among employees and employers.” The policies prohibit workers suspected of having the coronavirus from coming to work, requires the notification of workers of possible exposure, and includes physical distancing, personal protection equipment, and sanitation requirements.

StateFocus will be published on a monthly basis. Please submit any activity in your state to Shelton Roulhac for publication.
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