High Court Overturns Denial of Benefits

The South Dakota Supreme Court overturned a denial of benefits to a worker, finding that his work injury was a major contributing cause of his condition and need for treatment, but the court upheld a finding that he was not permanently and totally disabled. Case: Brewer v. Tectum Holdings Inc., No. 30403, 04/16/2025, published. Facts: Joshua Brewer worked for Tectum Holdings Inc. as a shipping clerk. He worked 10- to 12-hour shifts, lifting material kits that were 5- to 8-feet long and weighed anywhere from 28 to 60 pounds. During a typical day, Brewer would pull an average of 65 t...