Praise for Susan John

Silver Notes Efforts on Workers' Comp

Local Assemblywoman Susan John (D-131) received recognition today from NYS Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver for her efforts on the Workers' Comp reform legislation which was signed into law today by Governor Spitzer:

Let me once again acknowledge the work of our Labor Committee Chair,
Assembly Member Susan John, who invested days, nights and weekends in helping to secure this agreement.

Some of the legislation will take effect immediately, notable changes include to the Comp system include:

-The maximum weekly benefit will increase to $500 immediately, then to 2/3 of the state average weekly wage by 2010 and will be indexed and adjusted automatically in the future;

-Increases the minimum weekly benefit to $100;

-Increases the dollar amount for pre-approval of medical services to $1000;

-Provides lifetime medical coverage for workers with permanent partial disabilities;

-Mandates lump sum settlement (Section 32) offers for permanent partial disabilities;

-Provides workers with meaningful vocational rehabilitation and light duty programs;

-Creates a "Rocket Docket" program to speed resolution of claims;

-Abolishes the New York Compensation Rating Board