News Digest 4/7/2008

By: Rick Waldinger

Quote of the day

"New York was attacked by al-Qaida. It doesn't have to be attacked by Congress."

Rep. Pete King, R-N.Y., in a statement responding to comments by U.S. Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., that reportedly questioned federal compensation to some Sept. 11 emergency responders

Go to the full story in the Sacramento Bee

Issa Criticized over Sept. 11 Compensation Remarks
California Congressman Darrell Issa faces heated criticism from New York lawmakers after he made comments during a joint hearing of two House Judiciary subcommittees that questioned federal compensation for New York City firefighters and others. By Erica Werner, AP via Sacramento Bee [may require registration] Go to the Full Story…

Texas Supremes to Rehear Workers’ Comp Case
The Texas Supreme Court agrees to rehear a case that deals with the scope of the state workers’ compensation law. Four lawmakers and the Texas AFL-CIO asked the court last December to reverse its decision in the case, which they contend incorrectly expanded liability protections for employers. By AP via Houston Chronicle
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Blogworld: Cranes More Noticeable in Wake of Accidents
Massive tower cranes have become such a part of Portland’s skyline that people take their presence for granted. Only when there’s an accident, as was the case last month in New York City and Florida and again Thursday in Florida, do we glance skyward and wonder how the cranes work and whether they’re safe. By Tom Hallman, Jr., Oregonian
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Workplace Violence and Liability: Cutting the Risks
While employers are not required to guarantee an environment free from workplace violence, failure to address the issue can create liability for some incidents. Knowing how to reduce the chance of violence could protect you from potential liability. By Todd Wozniak, QSR Magazine
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Analysis: Mountain State’s Only Workers’ Comp Insurer Is Like No Other Mutual
BrickStreet Mutual Insurance Co. claims it is a private company owned by its 36,000 policyholders, the state’s employers. But it isn’t like State Farm, Nationwide, Liberty or any other mutual insurance company. By George Hohmann, Charleston Daily Mail
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