Proposed Bill Would Provide Greater Punishment for Noncompliant Employers

Bills introduced to the Massachusetts Legislature would increase the penalties for employers who fail to provide workers’ compensation insurance and ease restrictions on out-of-state employers. SD.490, sponsored by Sen. Thomas McGee, D-Third Essex, changes the penalties for noncompliant employers from a maximum fine of $1,500 and up to a year in prison to fines of $1,000 to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to five years. SD.1421 would allow employers that conduct business in Massachusetts for fewer than 20 calendar days a year to be in compliance with state law if they can produce proof ...