Board Proposes Change to E-filing Rule to Avoid Jurisdiction Issue

The Oregon Workers' Compensation Board is requesting public comment on proposed changes to a rule that will allow attorneys to file documents via email. Board members are concerned about potential jurisdictional arguments that could arise if a party does not attach a "Request for Hearing Form" to the email requesting a hearing or board review of an order. Roger C. Pearson, managing attorney for the board, advised members in a March 16 memorandum that it could be argued that the board does not have jurisdiction to hear matters if the form is not used. Pearson recommended that t...