DOGE Changes: Workers' Comp Costs Rise?

Changes within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could have negative economic repercussions for states that rely on a loophole that allows workers' compensation insurance carriers to benefit from Social Security Disability payments through reverse offsets. 

NJ High Court OKs Referral Fees

The New Jersey Supreme Court recently ruled that New Jersey certified attorneys are allowed to pay referral fees to attorneys in other states, even if those attorneys are not licensed to practice law in New Jersey.  

Bird Flu Transmission: Occupational Hazards

Persons working closely with animals infected with the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus, such as dairy cows, poultry, and other animals, are at an elevated risk of contracting the virus.  

Clocks and Dangers: Daylight Savings and Workplace Injuries

Most people in the United States look forward to Daylight Savings Time every spring. We lose an hour of sleep but gain an extra hour of sunshine in the evening. While many people enjoy the extra sunshine, they may not know the dangers of this switch. Studies have shown that the Monday following the switch to Daylight Savings Time is more dangerous for workplace injuries.

SSA to Withhold 100% of Benefits for Overpayments

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a new policy to withhold 100% of benefits for overpayments. This policy change, which takes effect on March 27, 2025, is a significant departure from the previous policy of withholding 10% of benefits.

Arbitration Clauses in Attorney Retainer Agreements

On March 5, 2025, the New Jersey Supreme Court notified the bar regarding including arbitration clauses in attorney retainer agreements. This notice includes an official comment to Rule of Professional Conduct (RPC) 1.4, which provides guidance on using arbitration provisions in these agreements. The notice and the comment are effective immediately.

Microplastics: Workplace Threat

Recent scientific studies and published articles have reported the dangers of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the workplace and the consequences of occupational exposure to MNPs.