Bill > A04742

This bill modifies the Workers' Compensation Law to improve the claims process and provide more robust protections for injured workers. It requires the Workers' Compensation Board to immediately index a claim upon receiving a medical report or injury report, and mandates that the board hold an initial hearing within 60 days for claims involving lost wages or time due to injury. The bill gives either party (the injured worker or the employer) the right to request a hearing, which must be scheduled within 45 calendar days of the application, and removes any limitations or prerequisites for such hearing requests. Additionally, the bill requires the board to maintain an accurate record of all hearings and mandates that all decisions be issued to the injured worker in their native language. The legislation also strengthens penalties for employers or insurance carriers who engage in "dilatory tactics" during hearings, such as failing to produce documents or witnesses, with potential financial penalties payable to the worker or a compensation fund. The changes aim to make the workers' compensation claims process more transparent, accessible, and fair for injured workers.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4742