If the United States Department of Labor’s most recent report is an indicator of shades to come, there is a chance that workers’ compensation in the United States may be subject to federal oversight in the future. In the federal agency’s latest report, the department asserted that state workers’ comp laws are headed “in the wrong direction” and that the “exploration” of federal oversight and minimum benefits should be pursued. NPR reports that the department’s stance is likely in reaction to a fall 2015 letter from 10 different Democratic legislators pleading for it to step in and assist injured workers throughout 33 states who have been affected by changing workers’ comp policies.
The report focuses on the numerous changes to worker protections over the past decade which make it far more challenging for injured workers to receive the financial benefits they need, especially the alternative “opt out” programs in Texas and Oklahoma which grant employers the ability to single out workers for unequal treatment. As such, the department is now proposing the implementation of federal standards which would result in federal oversight if state programs should fail to adhere to the given guidelines.
Considering the fact that workers’ compensation-related bills are surfacing in six different states, with more likely to come pending the results of November’s presidential election, federal interest in the matter is rising. For more information on this current topic and how this may effect companies looking to implement alternative workers’ comp programs, head over to HR Drive.
At Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law, our team of knowledgeable Albuquerque workers’ compensation attorneys are following this situation with interest. To find out more about possible changes to workers’ compensation or for information about how our firm’s skilled advocates can help you pursue your deserved financial benefits for your occupational injury or illness, contact our office online or dial (505) 219-2176 today.