The main issue in this appeal was whether a teacher was an essential employee who was entitled to a rebuttable presumption that getting COVID-19 was work-related and compensable under workers’ compensation.

The claimant initially injured her shoulder at work in 2021. During that claim, it was determined she made misrepresentations, which barred her from receiving further benefits under Florida Statute § 440.105.

The claimant suffered a work-related injury to his back on January 28, 2023, resulting in the parties entering into a “Medical Only” agreement acknowledging the back injury.