Pharmacy violated workers’ comp programs

• 4 Corners Pharmacy in Spring Hill, Florida agreed to pay $800,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act.
• The pharmacy knowingly billed the U.S. Department of Labor for a compound supplement that was either not ordered by a licensed healthcare provider or was never delivered to beneficiaries.
• The Department of Labor provides benefits authorized by the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act including compensation and payment of medical expenses to eligible claimants injured or ill on the job, or to their families.
• “We will continue to work with OWCP to protect the integrity of DOL’s workers’ compensation programs,” said Mathew Broadhurst with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
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Texas proposes amendments to military forces workers’ comp 

• The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation is proposing amendments to the Texas Administrative Code. expedited benefits for members of the Texas military forces
• The proposed rules implement Texas Labor Code Sections 401.027, 501.001, 501.027, 501.028, and 501.029, which were added or amended by House Bill 90 during the 2023 Regular Session.
• The proposed rules are necessary to implement the changes in HB 90 by clarifying workers’ comp coverage for authorized travel by members of the Texas military forces, ensuring that insurance carriers expedite claims for medical benefits by injured members of the Texas military.
• The proposed rules also include an update to the agency’s address and nonsubstantive editorial and formatting changes that update plain language and agency style to improve clarity.
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New proposal for workers’ comp for app-based gig workers

• The British Columbia government proposed new employment standards for gig workers with ride-hailing and food delivery apps, including a minimum wage, tip protection and workers’ comp coverage.
• The proposed amendments to the Employment Standards Act and the Workers Compensation Act are to ensure that workers who take gigs through online platforms are treated like employees.
• The proposed plan includes a minimum earnings standard for engaged time at 120% of minimum wages before tips, or $20.10 an hour at the current minimum wage of $16.75.
• App companies would be responsible for topping up the difference if workers’ earnings don’t meet the minimum standards.
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Amtrack wins appeal after injury