Here are five new laws on the horizon for Connecticut that could affect physicians, according to a July 18 article from law firm Day Pitney:
1. Connecticut has amended its existing physician noncompete law by adding requirements on large employers, altering the definition of "primary site" and extending its coverage. Noncompetes entered or amended on or after Oct. 1 will also not be enforceable if the physician does not agree to the proposed change to the compensation terms.
2. A bill was passed that expands workers' compensation benefits to include almost all employees for post-traumatic stress disorder injuries caused by witnessing certain tragic "qualifying events." This law becomes effective Jan. 1.
3. The comprehensive state budget appropriation and implementation act for the next two years, includes amendments to the state's standard wage law, which requires covered employers to pay covered employees certain wage and benefit rates. This law becomes effective Oct. 1.
4. A bill was passed that protects unionized employees' access to healthcare coverage if they have lost it as a result of a labor dispute. This law becomes effective Oct. 1.
5. A bill expanding permitted reasons for the use of paid sick and safe leave was passed. This law becomes effective Oct. 1.