PA Chamber Workers Compensation Policy

• We oppose any amendments that further erode employers' protections under the WC law and/or provide benefits without regard to employers' rights, interests and concerns.
• Maintain freedom from lawsuits by injured employees.
• A person truly eligible for benefits should not be denied, nor should a person not truly eligible receive benefits.

• The following elements should always be part of PA's WC law and program:

• Except for total or partial impairment or specific loss, workers' compensation benefits should replace, in part, wages lost because of compensable work-place injury or disease.
• The "exclusivity doctrine" of workers' compensation must be protected.
• The administration of the workers' compensation system must be timely and ensure that the rights of employees and employers are equally protected.

• The following principles should be incorporated into WC benefit structures:

• Benefits are only for work-related occupational injuries and illnesses.
• Benefits should be adequate, yet not excessive. They should not create a disincentive to return to work.
• The ultimate goal should be to return employees to productive, gainful employment. However, in the event of work-related occupational injuries and illnesses, employers are responsible for providing proper, reasonable, and quality medical care. Employees are responsible for accepting proper, reasonable, and quality medical care and advice so as to recover as fully and quickly as possible.