Category Archives: Workers’ Comp

An important change is about to happen in the New Mexico workers’ compensation system.  Potentially, it could make the system both more cost-effective and more compassionate to the injured workers who receive medical care under this system. It’s likely to … Continue reading →

The following is a real message (slightly edited, name changed) that I sent to a friend who owns an insurance agency. Dear Marge, As you know, I’m something of a workers’ compensation expert.  In my years at the Workers’ Compensation … Continue reading →

There will probably be legislation on workers’ compensation next January.  The interesting question is whether any controversial – and important – issues will see the light of day. Workers’ compensation legislation often originates from the Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council, a … Continue reading →

Drug abuse is back in the news in workers’ compensation – with a new wrinkle. The Workers’ Compensation Administration is suggesting yet another attempt to change the statutory language relating to workers who get injured while using drugs or alcohol.  … Continue reading →

Ben Alexander was still going strong the last time I saw him, about 10 years ago, when he sat on a panel for a retrospective on the New Mexico workers’ compensation reform of 1990.  He had been an indispensable member … Continue reading →

New legal developments related to the workers’ compensation system are affecting two important New Mexico industries – in precisely opposite ways, for precisely opposite reasons. Before this discussion continues, let me jump ahead to a conclusion, lest the reader assume … Continue reading →

For New Mexico small businesses with the highest cost premiums in the workers’ compensation system, a glimmer of good news: you might see a premium decrease next year.  This is according to statistics presented last week by NCCI, the National … Continue reading →

The things that drive small businesses crazy don’t only come from government.  This story involves the confusing interplay of insurance, regulation, and lawsuits. A friend who runs a small business called me to ask about this:  her business uses the … Continue reading →

The old doctor is gruff and authoritative.   He is at a workers’ compensation seminar, addressing the young lawyer who is the speaker.  He asks, bluntly: When you are representing an injured worker, what result do you want?  Do you want … Continue reading →