Electronic Summary Version

Jan 7, 2026

Quote of the day

“Without review of the statements, both at trial and earlier, the medical opinions are based on an incomplete history and cannot constitute substantial medical evidence.”
–– Second District

Go to the full story.

 

2025 Year-In-Review

What were the top workers’ comp stories to emerge in California in 2025? How did these events shape the workers’ comp industry last year, and what are the future ramifications?

 

Court Limits FAIR Plan Coverages

What coverage is included under a FAIR Plan homeowner’s policy, and why is incidental workers’ comp being excluded? The Second District explains its reasoning in a new opinion that goes against Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara.

 

Appeals Court Sends Case Back To WCAB

Why did an appeals court send a case back to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board? What was the failure WCAB admitted?

 

Delayed Report Shows 16% of Claims Shops Fail

It is going on two years late but is finally out. What does the Division of Workers’ Compensation’s 2023 audit report tell us about the competency of claims handling in the state?

 

Roxborough Elected New CHSWC Chair

The Commission on Health, Safety, and Workers’ Compensation has new leadership for 2026. Who is running the show, and how was this transition of power different from others?

 

No Disability Retirement For Sheriff’s Deputy

Is an injured worker obligated to do everything a doctor recommends for treating their industrial injury? The Second District explores the issue and its impact on disability retirement decisions.

 

Restitution Hearing Scheduled In Workers’ Comp Bribery Case

How much restitution should a convicted fraudster have to pay to the victims of a kickback ring? Who will make the final decision?