New York Proposes Expansion of Workers’ Comp Benefits for Mental Health
- New York lawmakers are considering a bill to expand workers’ comp eligibility for employees suffering from job-related mental health issues.
- Current state law requires proof of extraordinary stress, but the new proposal would lower that high legal threshold.
- Supporters argue this change ensures psychological injuries receive the same recognition and financial support as physical accidents.
- Critics remain concerned about potential cost increases for businesses.
New DOL Contractor Rule Sparks Workers’ Comp Coverage Shift
- The Labor Department’s move to simplify independent contractor classification creates significant implications for workers’ compensation eligibility.
- By returning to a flexible “economic reality” test, many workers previously classified as employees may lose automatic injury coverage.
- This shift allows businesses to reduce premium costs but increases the risk of costly misclassification lawsuits.
- Stakeholders must now navigate the growing gap between federal standards and strict state laws.
Hospital Sued for Firing Injured Employee Following Workers’ Comp Claim
- The EEOC is suing St. Vincent Hospital in New Mexico for terminating a worker who sustained a workplace injury.
- Instead of allowing a return to work through reassignment, the hospital allegedly demanded she be fully healed before resuming any duties.
- This case underscores the legal danger of firing employees immediately after their workers’ comp benefits or medical leaves expire.
- Agencies must consider reasonable accommodations for disabled staff to remain compliant with federal law.