Work Comp Connections

???Breaking News: Major Fraud Lawsuit in New York??? Ionian RE, a New York-based captive insurer, along with three construction contractors, has filed a lawsuit against several prominent law firms, including Subin & Associates, Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, and William Schwitzer & Associates. The lawsuit alleges a sophisticated fraud scheme involving staged workplace accidents designed to exploit New York’s Scaffold Law, which holds construction companies and property owners fully liable for worker injuries from falls. According to the lawsuit, these law firms orchestrated fake construction accidents by recruiting workers to stage incidents. They then filed fraudulent workers’ compensation and personal injury claims, inflating settlement values through unnecessary medical treatments. The lawsuit also includes claims under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, highlighting the severity and organized nature of the alleged fraud. This case underscores the importance of integrity and vigilance in both the legal and construction industries. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to follow the proceedings closely to understand the broader implications for industry practices and legal accountability. Stay tuned for more updates as this case unfolds. https://lnkd.in/g-DXNGzc #LegalNews #ConstructionIndustry #Fraud #Insurance #NewYork #ScaffoldLaw #RICO

???Exciting Updates for Texas Workers' Compensation in 2025!??? As we approach the new year, several important changes are coming to Texas workers' compensation laws and benefits: Average Weekly Wage (AWW): The 2025 state average weekly wage is set at $1,218.62, impacting the minimum and maximum weekly income benefits for injured employees. House Bill 90: Expanded benefits for Texas Military Forces, including coverage for PTSD and expedited medical benefits for serious injuries. House Bill 679: Government entities can no longer consider a contractor's workers' compensation experience modifier when awarding public construction contracts. House Bill 2314: Beneficiaries can now file workers' compensation death benefit claims directly with insurance carriers, who must notify the Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC). House Bill 2468: Updated eligibility criteria for lifetime income benefits (LIBs) for first responders, including new standards for traumatic brain injuries and third-degree burns. Senate Bill 1122: Medical exams to determine workers' compensation benefits are now excluded from sales and use tax. These updates aim to enhance the support and benefits for injured workers and their families. Stay informed and ensure you're up-to-date with these changes! #WorkersCompensation #TexasLaw #EmployeeBenefits #2025Updates

Here's a breakdown of some key California legislative changes in 2025 that clients need to be aware of to ensure compliance: Minimum Wage Increase: Effective January 1, 2025: The minimum wage in California will increase to $16.50 per hour. This applies to all employers, regardless of the number of employees. Impact: Employers will need to adjust their payroll systems and ensure that all employees are paid at least the new minimum wage.? Driver's License Requirement Restrictions: Effective January 1, 2025: SB 1100 prohibits employers from requiring a valid driver's license in job postings or applications unless:Driving is a primary job function. Alternative transportation options are not feasible in terms of time or cost.? ? Impact: Employers should review their job postings, applications, and hiring practices to ensure compliance with this new law. Expanded Protections for Employees: AB 2499: Expands protections for employees related to jury duty, court appearances, and victim-related activities.Requires employers to provide more generous leave time and job protection.? ? Impact: Employers will need to update their policies and procedures to comply with these new requirements. Intersectionality in Anti-Discrimination Laws: SB 1137: California becomes the first state to explicitly recognize intersectionality in anti-discrimination laws.Employers must consider how multiple protected characteristics (e.g., race, gender, sexual orientation) can intersect to create unique forms of discrimination.? ? Impact: Employers should review their anti-discrimination policies and training programs to ensure they address intersectionality. Additional Considerations: Stay Updated: California employment laws are constantly evolving. Employers should stay informed about new developments and consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance. Review Policies and Procedures: Update employee handbooks, policies, and procedures to reflect the new laws. Provide Training: Train managers and employees on the new laws to promote understanding and compliance.

Never forget.

N.J.S.A. 34:15-64: Attorney Fees in Workers' Compensation Cases N.J.S.A. 34:15-64 outlines the rules and regulations regarding attorney fees in workers' compensation cases in New Jersey. It primarily addresses the fees that can be awarded to an attorney who represents a successful petitioner in a workers' compensation claim. Key points from the statute: Attorney Fee Limit: The statute allows for a reasonable attorney fee, not exceeding 25% of the judgment awarded to the petitioner. Witness Fees: In addition to attorney fees, the court may also award costs for witness fees. Discretionary Award: The judge of compensation has the discretion to award attorney fees, considering the necessity of legal representation for the proper presentation of the case. Medical Expert Fees: The statute also addresses fees for medical experts, particularly those who provide depositions regarding causal relationship, ability to work, or the need for treatment. Recent Changes: As of August 22, 2024, there have been changes to this statute, increasing the maximum attorney fee from 20% to 25%. This change applies to all pending claims as of that date.

The recent study by the California Workers' Compensation Institute (CWCI) reveals a significant increase in medical-legal costs for California's workers' comp claims. Since the implementation of the new Med-Legal Fee Schedule in 2021, comprehensive exam payments have risen by 52%, mainly due to additional per-page fees for record review. This change underscores the evolving landscape of workers' compensation and the importance of staying informed about regulatory updates that impact both employers and employees.

Pure Premium Rate Filing Update.

ICT Conference. It will be a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in the field..

Excited to announce we're #OpenForBusiness and providing services on LinkedIn. Work Comp Connections is a full service claims consulting, advocacy, defense referral and risk advisory partner for small businesses.?With over 40 years of combined industry experience, our experts will leverage their knowledge and relationships to assist in your business needs.?With a background of risk and safety management, claims management in over forty jurisdictions, PEOs, and uninsured claims, WCC has seen it all and we are ready to help! Work Comp Connections is committed to not only building meaningful relationships with our clients; but also facilitating lasting relationships between our clients and our partners.?Go with people who know!