Workers' Compensation – An Adequate Employee Benefit Now?

Abstract

Fourteen years ago (1975) an analysis was conducted of Workers' Compensation Legislation in terms of how well it achieved it underlying objectives. At that time, in spite of more than sixty years of revision, the laws were meeting only some of their objectives and even these only partially. In the ensuring fourteen years additional study and revision has taken place. The laws are still inadequate, indeed with regard to some objectives, the situation has worsened. It is long past time to reform Workers' Compensation laws so that they will contribute effectively and efficiently to the social insurance system of the United States. Current legislative efforts appear to favor comprehensive health care programs although the form and content are being debated. Changes designed to restrain rising insurance costs appear eminent.