Maine governor signs workers' comp reform legislation

Maine is the latest state to revise its workers' comp statutes. A measure signed by Gov. Paul LePage is being touted as a win-win for all by insurers and business representatives while criticized as unfair to injured workers by labor unions.

Among its provisions, LD 1913 places a 10-year cap on benefits for most injured workers. The current law has no limit.

Supporters say the measure also simplifies and removes ambiguities from the workers' comp statute and changes eligibility requirements and compensation. Republicans who endorse the measure say it will reduce litigation, report injuries faster, and get employees back to work, as well as encourage retraining.

Undocumented workers is a hotbed issue for employers (08/29/11)
Report outlines effective strategies for successful self-insurance groups (06/18/12)
California: Employer advocates look toward full-on comp reform next year (11/10/11)
Opt-out proponents seek to expand support through education (09/10/12)
Economy, legislative reform, aging workers highlight regional sessions (10/29/12)

Among its supporters is Rep. Dale Crafts who was paralyzed from the waist down in an accident 29 years ago. He was quoted as saying the bill would help people get back to work.

The Maine AFL-CIO said the bill rolls back benefits for injured workers. The labor organization and opposing Democratic lawmakers called it a windfall for the insurance industry.

A separate bill signed by the governor clarifies the definition of independent contractor and sets penalties for misclassifying workers.

Read more at the WorkersComp Forum homepage.

April 23, 2012

Newsletter Sign-up