Amid Rise in SIBTF Assessments, Attorneys Weigh WCAB Meet-and-Confer Proposal

A proposal that would require parties in Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund cases to meet and confer 30 days before a mandatory settlement conference could benefit California’s workers’ comp system, but other changes may be needed to improve a program that has seen a recent rise in case filings and liabilities, attorneys said. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board recently proposed rules that would formalize processes for virtual hearings and require a “good faith” meet-and-confer practice for SIBTF claims. Applicants’ attorneys and other stakeho...