Significant Changes to Kansas Workers' Compensation Laws Effective July 1, 2024: See what it could mean for you...
Kansas workers' compensation law saw major reforms starting July 1, 2024, thanks to the enactment of SB 430. These updates mark the first significant changes in nearly a decade, with a focus on increasing benefits for injured workers and making the claims process more efficient. If you’ve been hurt at work, here are the key changes you need to know:
1. Higher Death and Disability Benefits
The new law significantly increases the caps on death benefits and Permanent Total Disability benefits:
Death Benefits: Raised from $300,000 to $500,000.
Permanent Total Disability Benefits: Increased from $155,000 to $400,000.
These changes provide greater financial security for injured workers and their families, ensuring adequate compensation for long-term care and support.
2. Automatic Inflation Adjustments
Starting in 2027, the benefit caps will be subject to Annual Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA), helping protect the real value of these benefits over time. This is a critical update, ensuring that workers do not lose purchasing power due to inflation.
3. Expanded Notice Period
The time for reporting injuries has been extended from 20 to 30 days. This gives workers more time to seek medical attention and gather necessary documentation, reducing the chances of a claim being denied due to late reporting.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates to Kansas workers' compensation law enhance financial support for injured workers and streamline the process for obtaining compensation. By understanding these changes, you can better navigate the workers' compensation system and ensure that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured at work, it’s crucial to understand how these changes impact your rights. Contact our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Cooper Law Office today to ensure you receive the full benefits you deserve under the new law.