California Dreaming

Oh boy, California is at it again. I don't know if you saw this story but hold on to your knickers, California pays worker's comp to professional athletes. Let me explain; Terrell Owens played seven years for the Denver Broncos, he was rookie of the year (and proud recipient of a $6.8 million dollar five year contract) as well as Super Bowl MVP. He is arguably one of the all-time best NFL receivers (although burdened with a pissy attitude and a big mouth, of which I can sympathize). And according to the L.A. Times, since retirement has received nearly $200k from the good people of the State of California in worker's comp benefits. He received this money even though he played just 9 out of 88 career games in state. But Owens isn't the only one. Over the years Sacramento has awarded millions to athletes most of whom played elsewhere. One individual had played only one game in California his whole career but as did the others received compensation due to the "cumulative effects" of his professional career.

The thing is worker's comp is funded by employers and not a penny from the state. And if a professional athlete plays in California or Illinois or Texas, then that state gets the contributions. But no state pays for "cumulative effects" or out of state athletes. You would think the State of California, especially with the shape they're in would be a little more careful with other people's money, but you would be wrong.