Recently, the Pennsylvania legislature opted to offer employers a decrease in workers’ compensation policy rates, while available benefits for injured workers will remain the same. According to a recent announcement by Governor Tom Wolf’s office, workers’ compensation insurance rates will drop .90 percent for businesses statewide, creating a potential savings of nearly $20 million for area employers.
In a statement by the Governor, “maintaining fair benefits for workers injured on the job is vital for Pennsylvania families’ financial well-being and peace of mind…. Sticking to this responsibility, while still reducing rates on a key cost, helps business owners continue to create and support jobs that pay in Pennsylvania.”
However, despite ever-increasing inflation and a cost-savings for employers, the statutory benefits available to a worker injured on the job remain the same. This reduction is actually the fifth consecutive workers’ compensation cut in just five years, saving employers an aggregate of $570 million over the past half-decade.
In a statement by the Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner, “the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Health & Safety Division provides employers with the most up-to-date and relevant safety information and benefits possible for employees… Having a certified workplace safety committee ensures safety knowledge and practices are disseminated while providing another way for employers to save money on workers’ compensation insurance costs.”
Available benefits for injured workers vary based on the severity of the injury and the length of time the employee must miss work. Generally, injured workers are entitled to medical care expenses and payment for lost wages (if left partially or permanently disabled). Specific loss benefits may be available if the injury resulted in partial or permanent loss of sight or hearing, the permanent loss of use of all or part of the thumb, finger, hand, arm, leg, foot or toe, or in a serious and permanent disfigurement of the head, face or neck.
If you are facing a difficult Pennsylvania workers’ compensation issue, contact a Pennsylvania attorney experienced in handling workers’ compensation cases to guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.