Missouri employer input is needed as policymakers consider future changes to the workers’ compensation system following a recent Missouri Supreme Court ruling.
In Cosby v. Treasurer as Custodian of the Second Injury Fund, the court determined that a worker who suffered an injury after January 1, 2014, could not be compensated by the Second Injury Fund. The cutoff date originated in the 2013 Senate Bill 1 reform law.
The question is now: Who pays for injuries occurring after January 1, 2014?
The workers’ compensation system in Missouri was established to pay for medical care and other benefits for workers who have been injured on the job. Changes to the system in 2013 included the cutoff date for making claims to the Second Injury Fund. If a worker is injured after January 1, 2014, it is not clear who will be liable to compensate that worker for certain injuries.
The Missouri Chamber is reviewing legislative options with policymakers, relevant agencies, and employers to determine the best course of action.
If you have feedback on this issue, please contact Matt Panik, Missouri Chamber vice president of governmental affairs, at mpanik@mochamber.com or (573) 634-3511.
