Many Troubled by Proposed Changes to Iowa Workers’ Compensation

At a recent public hearing, Iowans split on proposed changes to the Iowa workers’ compensation law, with 17 speakers supporting the changes and 16 opposing.

House File 518 and Senate File 435 seeks to end worker benefits at age 67, reduce benefits for injuries related to pre-existing conditions, limit late fees for employers who fail to pay benefits on time and cap attorneys’ fees when injured employees seek legal help to get their benefits paid.

Among those in favor of the bills are business owners who say the insurance premiums are becoming too expensive and that the current Iowa workers’ compensation law is vulnerable to exploitation. Many voiced concerns over the rising cost of litigation brought by injured employees when their coverage is denied.

Those who oppose the bill say passage of the new law would be very disadvantageous to workers that are injured on the job. Many feel that employers should not only improve workplace safety so workers do not get injured in the first place, but that employers have an obligation to take care of their injured workers by paying benefits on time and approving needed medical care so that employees can work toward recovery.

If you have been denied workers’ compensation benefits, contact the workers’ compensation law offices of John T. Hemminger for help. Our attorneys will aggressively pursue the benefits that you are entitled to when you are injured on the job. Call today 515-283-2116.