2020 has been full of extremely life-altering and impactful events. In this coming November, we are facing an important election that will, in many ways, drastically affect our day to day lives in the coming years. In addition to taxes, the economy, national defense, and more, workers’ compensation is also largely affected by who is elected into important governmental positions in the U.S. There are several things to consider during this year’s elections relating to workers’ compensation insurance and benefits.
Open Seats
Although the president’s seat is the most visible during election time, there are various other positions that open during this election cycle that can be instrumental for the health of the workers’ compensation system. Two of the most important government elect positions relating to workers’ compensation include the governor and insurance commissioner seats. Both of these can have a lasting impact on the policies relating to workers’ compensation insurance for employees. There are many other policies that can be voted into the system during elections so it is important that you spend time understanding both local and national candidates and how they could impact your rights as a worker.
Changes to the System
The workers’ compensation system was designed to protect workers in the event they are injured on-the-job. Although this is still the main goal of the system, there have been different protocols put in place that alter the overall effectiveness of workers’ compensation. It is essential that you do your research about workers’ compensation as a whole in the U.S., and more specifically, in the state you reside so you better understand which new policies could help, and which ones could hurt, your protections as a worker.
The election cycle brings important topics to the front of our minds and workers’ compensation rights should not be left out. Although you may not feel the impact of the workers’ compensation system on a daily basis, it is important to make sure that you receive adequate benefits in the unforeseen event in which you suffer from a workplace injury or illness. Conducting your own research about who is running for both federal and state-level seats that could influence the system is the best way to begin educating yourself to make important decisions about the votes you want to cast this coming November. With a rapidly evolving world, the last thing you want to have to worry about is your safety and well-being while at work.
Source: https://www.irmi.com/articles/expert-commentary/20-workers-compensation-issues-to-watch