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2010 was a relatively quiet year for workers' comp news. Even though workers' comp provides essential benefits to injured workers, it received little attention from legislators, who focused most of their time to debates about economic concerns and healthcare reform.
With the first quarter of 2011 now behind us, several key issues have emerged as possible points of development for the rest of the year in workers' comp.
Injured Workers Staying Out of Work Longer
According to the National Council on Compensation Issues (NCCI), workers' comp payers are paying total disability benefits longer than they did in the past. The current state of the economy is to blame: at a time when many companies are facing layoffs, there are simply fewer opportunities for employment. Indeed, injured workers with few job prospects have little incentive to get well. Increasing the availability of transitional job options will not only help the injured get back to work quicker, but also help keep costs down.
Worker Misclassification
In 2010, both federal and state authorities increased efforts to stop employers from misclassifying independent contractors. According to a USA Today report, the Department of Labor required employers to pay $6.5 million in back wages to over 5,000 workers last year. Many states are also exploring ways of requiring employers to reclassify contractors as employees, thus allowing authorities to pursue unpaid taxes.
An Experienced Workers' Comp Attorney Can Help
If you or someone you love has been injured at work, contact an experienced workers' comp lawyer. A lawyer can assess your case and explain your options. For more information, contact an attorney today.
