Please consider this important ARAWC government relations update:
U.S. Department of Labor Challenge to Prompt Injury Reporting. The recent 2020 ARAWC Annual Meeting provided an update on DOL investigations of Texas injury benefit programs. At least four DOL letters (substantially identical to this one) now allege that end-of-shift, 24-hour, and next day injury reporting requirements violate ERISA’s claim procedure regulations and fiduciary rules. A broad range of responses must be considered. As you know, eliminating prompt injury reporting under Texas injury benefit programs may have a substantially adverse impact on injured employee medical outcomes and investigation of negligence liability claims.
Impact of Recent Presidential Election. A change in President, with authority to appoint new DOL leadership, may further reinforce and significantly expand this federal attack on Texas injury benefit programs.
2021 Texas Legislative Session begins January 12. Dialogue has begun regarding the possibility of changes in Texas law that would be more favorable toward injury benefit programs than the current direction of federal regulatory activity.
Renewal of Your ARAWC Membership. Continued viability of Texas injury benefit programs may depend upon ARAWC’s ability to successfully navigate government relations and public relations in the weeks and months ahead, both at federal and state levels. As the most influential industry voice, many employers and service providers are now joining ARAWC or upgrading membership levels. At this pivotal time, you are encouraged to renew your ARAWC membership now or click herefor the online application.
Register for December 3rd Update. On December 3, from 12-1 PM Central Time, your ARAWC Government Relations team will provide further updates. Click here to register.
You can also contact ARAWC Government Relations advisers (Ryan Brannan or A.J. Donelson), any member of the ARAWC Executive Committee, or info@arawc.org. Thanks for your consideration.
ARAWC Executive Committee
@ 2020 Association for Responsible Alternatives to Workers' Compensation (ARAWC).
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