Biosimilars and Cannabis In Workers’ Comp

What is the Division of Workers' Compensation Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee recommending for the emerging class of biosimilar medications? When does it plan to take action on cannabis in workers' comp?

2024’s Biggest News

The turning of a new year is an opportunity to reflect on the key developments of the prior year. What were the top stories of 2024? Workers' Comp Executive placed this story in front of its fire-wall so non-subscribers can see what they're missing. Click here

Changes For Contractor Workers’ Comp Exemption

The Contractors State Licensing Board approved a plan to continue an exemption from workers' comp for contractors that operate without employees but increases penalties for those who cheat. Who would be covered, and what are the proposed penalties for those caught cheating?

Multiple Parties in SIBTF Fraud

Federal officials secured one guilty plea in a workers' comp fraud case, but others are still uncharged. What was the scam, and might an Orange County Judge be involved?

Supplemental Job Benefits Regulatory Changes

What is the industry's reaction to potential changes to the Supplemental Job Displacement Benefit system to address provider and counselor fraud?

Supreme Court Takes Up WCAB Petition

Why is the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board going to the California Supreme Court? Does one underlying case impact its operations? Will the WCAB be forced to decide cases timelier? Heady stuff for some readers who if they are premium subscribers can click here for the whole sto-ry.

MEWA Defendants Seek Acquittal, New Trial

The two main defendants in a long-running MEWA scheme that sold a purported alternative to workers' comp coverage seek acquittal and a new trial. What reason did they provide to the court?

Higher Medication Dispensing Fees Adopted

Here are the final pharmacy fee regulations adopted by the Division of Workers' Compensation. How much more will employers be paying, and to whom? Premium subscribers can click right here.

Attorney’s Interim Suspension Lifted

The State Bar Court lifted a temporary suspension order for a Southern California attorney connected to a workers' comp fraud case. What is the underlying disciplinary issue, and when will it be resolved?

Fraud Funding Realignment Is Back

Why is the California Department of Insurance seeking a larger portion of the anti-fraud funds provided to District Attorneys by California employers? What benefits are employers receiving in return for the millions they contribute to combat workers' compensation fraud? Premium subscribers can click here to find out.

Subsequent Injuries Fund Drives Assessments Past $2B For 2025

Department of Industrial Relations assessments are at record levels. How much is DIR holding as reserves, and which fund is driving the increase?

DAs Fail To Spend Fraud Funding Again

After California District Attorneys failed for the second year in a row to spend the funds allocated to fight workers comp fraud, the California Department of Insurance is asking to receive the funds that weren't spent. Who will be getting a bigger slice of the pie?

California Supreme Court Hears Penalty Case

Should industrial disability leave be treated the same as the temporary disability benefits it replaces in cases where an employer committed serious and willful misconduct? What did the industry have to say about the issues now before the California Supreme Court?

New York Ruling In Deductible Dispute

XL insurance wins millions from Personnel Staffing Group, a staffing company. Among the is-sues - Is collateral the same as accelerated damages under the deductible provisions of large deductible workers' comp policies? Will the California Department hearing bureau treat the issue like a New York Federal Court did?

WCAB Goes to Supreme Court

Why is the Workers Comp Appeals Board going to California's Supreme Court? What are the potential ramifications if the Supreme Court does not step in?