Bengals want to change Ohio workers’ comp rules for players injured on the field

CINCINNATI (Enquirer) - The Cincinnati Bengals organization is pushing for changes to Ohio law that would prevent players under contract from getting compensation if they’re injured on the field, according to our media partners at the Enquirer.

A measure drafted by Rep. Bill Seitz, R-Cincinnati, would bar active professional athletes from filing for permanent partial disability over an injury or illness related to their job. Seitz said he’s working with Bengals leaders on the amendment, but if passed, it would apply to players on the Cleveland Browns, Columbus Blue Jackets and other Ohio teams.

The NFL Players Association called attention to the proposal over the weekend and accused the Bengals of attempting to strip Ohio athletes of their workers’ compensation benefits. But Seitz cast disability compensation for athletes still earning millions of dollars as “welfare for the rich.”

“It does not prohibit worker’s compensation generally,” Seitz said. “It is limited to permanent partial disability cases brought by pro athletes who are still actively playing.”

A spokesperson for the Bengals did not respond to a request for comment. According to The Athletic, team leaders want to prevent players from “double dipping” by claiming disability while still active in the league.

NFL Players’ Association raises alarm bells

Seitz’s amendment would be tacked on to a broader bill dealing with the state workers’ compensation budget. The committee debating that legislation has yet to schedule its next meeting.

Rep. Jessica Miranda, D-Forest Park, who serves on that committee, said she’s awaiting further information but expressed concern about what she’s heard so far.

“Details seem unclear right now, but if they are trying to strip athletes of workers comp, then players, past & present, must stand up & support workers’ rights,” Miranda tweeted Sunday.

Another issue raised by the players’ association is Ohio’s statute of limitations on workers’ compensation claims, which expire five years after the date of the last payment or last medical services rendered. The association contends this legislation would run out the clock on claims from players who are still under contract.

“Simply put, it is an attack on your rights as an American and a player covered by the (collective bargaining agreement),” the association stated. “They are doing it to increase their profit.”

Seitz disputed that, saying players could simply go to the doctor to keep their claims alive.

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