As seen in previous posts, workers' compensation law is always a relatively popular subject among legislators here in the state of California. In fact, our work comp system has undergone significant and widespread reform over the last decade.

While we are accustomed to seeing real changes in our work comp system, one place where there has been absolutely no major work comp reform for nearly four decades -- let alone any real dialogue on the topic -- is Washington, D.C.

This is significant because the federal workers' compensation system, created as part of the Federal Employee Compensation Act (FECA) and run by the Department of Labor, currently covers almost 3 million employees and paid out nearly $3 billion in 2010.

In recent developments, this lack of reform may now be a thing of the past as legislation designed to remedy systemic flaws, update outdated practices and repair procedural impediments was passed by congressional representatives earlier this week.

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed the Federal Workers' Compensation Modernization and Improvement Act, otherwise known as HR 2465.

The measure, sponsored by a host of bipartisan legislators -- Rep. John Kline (R-MN), Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Rep. George Miller (D-CA), and Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) -- is designed to do some of the following:

  • Update the work comp benefits for which federal workers are eligible
  • Promote best practices in medical treatment/developments
  • Provide the Department of Labor with the power to validate the salary of federal employees via Social Security records
  • Provide the Department of Labor with the power to collect administrative fees from the agencies that employ injured federal workers

"As is too often the case with government programs left unchecked, waste and inefficiencies have crept into the system, leading to poor use of taxpayer resources and diminished support for those the program is intended to serve," said Rep. Walberg. "This legislation will help ensure federal employees have access to a program that reflects the realities of today's economy and the best practices in medical care."

Stay tuned for further updates on workers' compensation law from our San Diego firm ...

If you have questions or would like to learn more about workers' compensation benefits, contact an experienced legal professional.

This post was for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

Sources:

The Federal Times, Steven Losey, "House approves workers' comp reforms" Nov. 30, 2011

Insurance Journal, Andrew Simpson, "House committee approves federal workers' compensation reforms" July 14, 2011