March 25, 2026 Heat exposure, workplace violence and structural changes to coverage systems are key emerging issues shaping the workers compensation landscape in 2026, according to a report released Tuesday by the National Council on Compensation Insurance. The report indicates that while familiar policy debates — including mental injury claims, presumption laws, cancer initiatives and worker classification — remain active, regulators and lawmakers are increasingly focused on newer risks that...

March 20, 2026 A Florida appellate court on Wednesday ruled that the costs associated with a tetraplegic worker’s travel to visit family out of state did not qualify for coverage as medical benefits. As documented in Purple Pride Inc. v. Burgess , the man worked for Purple Pride Inc. He suffered injuries in a work-related motor vehicle accident in 2019 that left him tetraplegic. Burgess now requires around-the-clock attendant care. The insurance provider for Purple Pride accepted liability...

March 6, 2026 Cannabis can’t qualify as reasonable and necessary medical treatment under the Longshore Harbor and Workers’ Compensation Act because it remains a Schedule I drug under federal law, the U.S. 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Thursday. Growing acceptance of cannabis having some medicinal value — and an apparent willingness of the federal government to entertain rescheduling — are irrelevant in Luis Peña Garcia’s request for reimbursement for edibles recommended to treat chronic...