Workers' Compensation: The Biden Plan to Strengthen Safety in the Workplace Anticipated

As New Jersey re-implement stricter controls to contain the new surge the COVID-19, a stronger federal policy appears to be on the horizon from the incoming Biden Administration. Employers will need to prepare for the anticipated rules.

NJ is tightening restrictions as the COVID-19 surge advances. Governor Phil Murphy signed executive orders this morning ordering the new restrictions.

Effective tomorrow, 11/17/2020, indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people. The following indoor gatherings may continue under the current rules – limited to 25% of the rooms capacity, up to 150 people: religious services/celebrations and political events; weddings; funeral/memorial services; and performances.

Effective November 23 outdoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 150 people.

For a copy of Executive Order No. 196, please click here.

All New Jersey workers’ compensation courts, pursuant to a previous directive, are closed to the public until further notice. Judges of Compensation continue to hear matters as possible by telephonic and video conferencing.

It is anticipated that the Biden administration will prioritize COVID protections when the administration takes office on January 20, 2021. The initial actions will probably be immediate Presidential Executive Orders.

It is highly expected that an emergency workplace safety standard concerning the COVID-19 pandemic will be implemented. OSHA has been severely criticized for ignoring and dismissing unsafe workplaces during the SARS-CoV2 epidemic, and by permitting retaliation against those who complain about unsafe conditions in the workplace.

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