Quote of the day
“And while those supporting these measures may claim otherwise, many of the bills or laws try to effectively eliminate the existence of independent contractors, preferring everyone to be an employee and, presumably, someone who might then be persuaded to join a union.”
Erik Sherman, freelance journalist
New Jersey workers’ comp reform measure aims to support entrepreneurs
The New Jersey Senate on Monday advanced legislation that revises the definition of “employer,” within workers’ compensation law, in an effort to aid entrepreneurs in the state. The legislation provides a partnership is not subject to workers’ comp law if there are only two partners, and if there is no other person who performs services for it. NJBiz
Montana insurance commissioner reports workers’ comp rate decrease
Montana’s auditor and insurance commissioner yesterday announced he approved a decrease in workers compensation loss costs, a continuation of lower rates in the state. This year’s 8.1 percent overall average decrease will go into effect on July 1. KGVO (Missoula)
New Jersey pharmacist pleads guilty to workers’ comp scam
A Fort Lee, New Jersey pharmacist pleaded guilty Monday to participating in an elaborate scheme involving bogus workers’ compensation claims by postal workers and pain relief creams, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. northjersey.com
Here’s what Louisiana small businesses want from state government
A group of executives have been hashing out for several months priorities and goals meant to improve the small business climate in Louisiana, including reducing workers’ compensation costs, On average, Louisiana employers pay $2.23 per $100 of payroll dollars for workers’ comp insurance compared to only $1.08 in Arkansas and $1.17 in Virginia, according to the report. The board asserts some types of jobs are incorrectly defined as high risk by insurers. The Advocate (Baton Rouge)
OFF TOPIC
‘Unions are hurting working people under the guise of protecting them’
“Had it not been for unions, work weeks would be longer, pay less, and the standard of living lower. However, past good doesn’t negate current troublesome activities,” specifically, legislation like California’s AB 5 and the national H.R. 2474, writes Erik Sherman in Forbes.