Ohio bill targets workers’ compensation injuries at home
A bill recently passed by the Ohio House would eliminate at-home injuries suffered by employees working from home that were not a direct result of a typical work. The bill outlines three criteria such employees must meet to qualify for workers’ compensation, including that the injury must: arise out of employment; be caused by a special hazard of the employee’s employment activity; and have happened during an activity for the exclusive benefit of the employer. Center Square
Fighting firefighter cancer claims: ‘Slap in the face’ or good fiscal policy?
The city of Dayton, Ohio has fought workers’ compensation claims filed by several city firemen who developed cancer, even though Ohio law presumes cancer among firemen in many cases is caused by on-the-job exposure. Officials with the firemen’s union say the attempts to deny these claims are unconscionable, while city officials say they have to ensure they are based on medical evidence. Dayton Daily News
Stalled federal bill leaves coalminers uncertain on future of black lung benefits
Thousands of coal miners and their families are uncertain about the future of the federal Black Lung Disability Trust Fund. The fund’s revenue source late last year was slashed by more than half, and experts say it is on track to run out of money. Public News Service
Missouri mine owner allegedly used equipment filled with rocks to deter inspectors
A Missouri mine owner accused of harassing inspectors and using “loading equipment filled with rocks and dirt” to force them away last August, has agreed to never interfere with another federal inspection, officials say. The incident took place in August when a federal inspector went to the mine for a semi-annual inspection, and owner allegedly began “cussing, screaming, and spitting” at him. Kansas City Star