As we say goodbye to 2014 and we welcome 2015, we need to keep in mind that with the new year we have new laws relating to workers' compensation in California. A summary of the new laws can be found at the following Department of Industrial Relations website link:
http://www.dir.ca.gov/OPRL/Leg_Digest2014.pdf
With respect to workers' compensation, The Governor signed AB 1035 which extends the time period for public safety employees (firefighters or peace officers) to file a case to collect death benefits from 240 weeks to 420 weeks but no more than one year after the date of death subject to certain conditions.
The Governor also signed AB 1746 which now requires unrepresented employees to be placed on a priority calendar to resolve issues involving whether the injured worker was actually an employee or whether the injury was work related.
The Governor also signed AB 2732 which allows CIGA to levy an assessment of up to 2% of direct written premiums for the payment of claims and expenses.
Notably, the mileage rate for 2015 has been increased to 57.5 cents per mile and the new Medical mileage expense form can be found on the following link.
http://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/I&A_mileageForm.pdf
Workers' Compensation Law Attorney Scot Shoemaker helps San Francisco Bay Area residents with legal matters related to their work related injuries. To schedule a free consultation, call (415) 463-5310.
