Bills Would Allow Stakeholders to Petition for Hearings on WC Rulemaking

The New York Senate last week approved two bills that could make workers' compensation rulemaking hearings more frequent and more accessible via electronic means. Senate Bill 1265, sponsored by Sen. Michael Gianaris, D-Queens, singles out the state Workers' Compensation Board and five other agencies to hold a hearing on proposed rule changes if at least 125 people sign a petition. The Workers' Compensation Board already accepts written public comments on rule changes, but the bill would make it easier for people to ask for a hearing with agency officials. The measure also wou...