Title
Introduction of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Revising Section 2-59.3 (Limitation and Power to Make Contracts) of Article IV (Contracts) of Chapter II (Administration), Authorizing the City Manager and the City Attorney to Settle Liability Claims up to $75,000 Unless Otherwise Limited by Law and to Settle Liability Claims Involving Payments by Excess Liability Coverage. (City Attorney 2310)
Body
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report provides an overview of the City of Alameda's (City) workers' compensation program, which provides benefits to employees for work-related injuries and illnesses. The information herein includes the purpose, explanation of benefits, mechanics of administration, and claims history for the City's program. The report also explains the benefits of revising the Alameda Municipal Code (AMC) to authorize staff to settle claims, including workers' compensation claims, up to $75,000 unless otherwise limited by law, to be consistent with staff's existing contract authority.
BACKGROUND
Workers' compensation is mandated by the State of California under California Labor Code ? 3600. Under California Labor Code ? 3700, the City is required to secure compensation by either obtaining insurance from an authored insurer or self-insuring.
DISCUSSION
Purpose of Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation laws provide for the medical care and compensation of injured workers on a no-fault basis, i.e., benefits will be provided regardless of how safe the employer makes the workplace. Cal. Lab. Code ? 3600. Workers' compensation is generally the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries or illnesses, and employees cannot seek damages through a separate tort suit. Cal. Lab. Code ? 3602(a).1
All City employees, elected officials, and specified volunteers (by City Resolution) are eligible to file a workers' compensation claim. Claims are overseen by the Workers' Compensation Appeals ...
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