Changes involve out-of-province workers, firefighters
The government of Saskatchewan has introduced proposed amendments to The Workers’ Compensation Act, positioning the province as a national leader in worker compensation coverage and addressing long-standing concerns from employers and injured workers.
If passed, the changes will expand coverage, enhance access to benefits, and introduce several administrative reforms.
A key feature of the amendments is the inclusion of wildland firefighters under presumptive coverage for 22 cancers and heart injury, aligning Saskatchewan with similar provisions in Manitoba, British Columbia, and Ontario.
"In March of 2024, we passed legislation providing coverage for firefighters for 22 types of cancer," Minister Responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board Jim Reiter said. "With the introduction of this Bill, we are extending that same coverage to wildland firefighters who also face risks as they help protect our environment, structures and communities."
Additionally, the amendments propose extending voluntary coverage to out-of-province workers who are Canadian residents but temporarily working outside Saskatchewan.
If approved by the Workers’ Compensation Board, this measure will make Saskatchewan one of the most comprehensive jurisdictions in Canada for worker coverage.
The proposed Section 34 change would also provide the Workers’ Compensation Board with authority to grant coverage for out-of-province workers, strengthening Saskatchewan’s reputation as a leader in employee protection.
The amendments include provisions to ensure chiropractors, healthcare professionals, physicians, and psychiatrists licensed in other jurisdictions are covered under the Act. These changes will help address gaps in coverage and improve access to necessary medical support for workers across borders.
A further amendment to Subsection 100(3) will empower the board to suspend compensation for Saskatchewan residents or out-of-province workers who are incarcerated outside the province.
The proposed changes include several administrative updates to improve the efficiency and transparency of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s processes.
