California: Santa Monica pays more money for fewer workers’ comp claims

In Santa Monica, the cost of settling workers’ compensation claims is increasing even as workers are filing less claims. The significant reduction in staff and scaled-down city operations can explain why the number of claims filed in the last fiscal year dropped to a ten-year low. The increase in cost per claim poses the potential to become a more severe financial stressor as the pandemic subsides and the city continues to rehire staff. Santa Monica Daily Press

Legislation giving Florida first responders with PTSD more time for workers’ comp claims advances

Legislation in the Florida House intended to give first responders more time to begin claims for work-related post-traumatic stress is approaching its final committee hearings. Under current law, first responders must file notices within 90 days of the qualifying event or manifestation of the disorder, and must file their claim within 52 weeks of the traumatic event in question. The bill would start the 52-week clock when the first responder is diagnosed with PTSD. Florida Politics

Maine bill to support emergency responders with PTSD moves forward

A bill to address mental health support for Maine’s first responders is moving forward in the Maine Legislature. The bill would extend permanently a law allowing firemen, EMTs, policemen, emergency dispatchers and corrections officers to get treatment for work-related post-traumatic stress disorder. WABI

Workplace cannabis poses uncertainty, risks for employers

New Jersey recently legalized recreational use of cannabis. The state also has legalized medicinal use of cannabis. Recent cases have shined a light on the risks and uncertainty employers continue to face over marijuana in the workplace, write Douglas Gromack and Jonathan Spadea of Chartwell Law. In the realm of workers’ compensation, New Jersey employers are also navigating the unique implications of medical cannabis. JD Supra