National -
• Workers’ Compensation Research Institute released its Flash Report. This report offers an in-depth analysis of workers’ compensation claims from 2017 – 2022 when significant workforce and economic changes occurred. The report focuses on 31 states and 8.4 million non-COVID-19 claims. To read the report, click here.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) scheduled a hearing to discuss the proposed updates to its emergency response standard. The update aims to expand safety and health protections for our nation’s first responders. The virtual hearing will take place on November 12th at 9 am ET. To learn more, check out this Safety and Health article.
Alabama – State Senator Sam Givhan (R) introduced a bill that would bring public school teachers in line with other state employers. SB 1 would allow full-time public school teachers to receive workers’ compensation if hurt on the job.
Delaware – Governor John Carney signed
SB 306 into law. SB 306 changes a law that allows employers to participate in a workplace safety insurance program. Specifically, the bill eliminates a requirement that employers pay $3,161 and up in annual workers’ compensation premiums to qualify for safety programs.
Massachusetts - This week the Massachusetts House introduced
H 4891. H 4891 aims to hold Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) accountable by requiring PBMs to obtain licenses every three years. The bill would also allow the Health Policy Committee oversite with PBMs and pharmaceutical manufacturers during the state’s annual healthcare cost trends hearing process. To learn more, check out this article on the bill.
Pennsylvania -
• Governor Josh Shapiro (D) enacted HB 1993, the Pharmacy Audit Integrity and Transparency Act. HB 1993 aims to increase transparency of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) by allowing the Pennsylvanian Insurance Department the authority to regulate PBM practices. The bill also aims to reduce out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications.
- Republican State Senator Patrick J. Stegano introduced SB 1290 into Congress. SB 1290 aims to remove restrictions on medical cannabis patients’ job duties while under the influence of medical marijuana. The bill would allow employers to require drug tests for safety-sensitive roles and employees that refuse such tests could result in employment consequences.
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