Bill > H1691

This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding workers' compensation for business owners, specifically for officers or directors of a corporation who own at least 25% of the company's stock. Currently, these individuals may be excluded from workers' compensation coverage. This bill clarifies that such an exclusion is elective, meaning the officer or director can choose to opt out of coverage. To do so, they must sign a written waiver, certifying under penalty of perjury that they meet the ownership requirements. This waiver becomes effective once the corporation's insurance carrier and the commissioner of industrial accidents (the state agency overseeing workers' compensation) receive it, and it remains in effect until the officer or director formally withdraws it in writing. If a corporation violates these provisions, it will face penalties outlined in section 25C of the law.