Which presumption applies to public safety officers?

• A. Presumption of public safety officers
• B. Presumption of ordinary workers
• C. Presumption of permanent disability
• D. Presumption of temporary incapacity

Answer: (A)

Public safety officers have a special presumption in California workers’ compensation: injuries or diseases that occur in the line of duty are presumed to be job-related. This means the illness or injury is assumed to be caused by work, shifting the burden to the employer to rebut with contrary evidence. This targeted presumption recognizes the unique risks faced by police, firefighters, and other public safety personnel and makes it easier for them to qualify for benefits. The other options don’t describe this dedicated presumption: one isn’t a general “presumption for ordinary workers,” and “permanent disability” or “temporary incapacity” describe disability outcomes, not a causation presumption specific to public safety officers.