ACIC Commends Gov. Schwarzenegger for Addressing WC Issues

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has displayed strong leadership in addressing workers’ compensation issues by calling the California Legislature into special session to enact further cost-saving reforms to the state’s workers’ compensation system, according to the Association of California Insurance Companies (ACIC).

Reforms approved by the Legislature and signed into law earlier this year represent important first steps in revitalizing California’s beleaguered workers’ compensation system, said ACIC President Sam Sorich.

“However, we believe — as does the governor — that much more needs to be done to reform the state’s workers’ compensation system and fully stabilize the market place,” Sorich said. “Through reforms, we can continue to provide the financial help needed to injured workers while still lowering workers’ compensation costs for employers.”

Among the specific issues ACIC would like to see addressed in the special legislative session are: permanent partial disability benefits, legal costs and administrative costs.

“Although in office only a few hours, Gov. Schwarzenegger has displayed strong leadership by addressing this very important issue that affects millions of Californians — workers and consumers alike,” Sorich said. “Without major reforms, the system will continue to be out of balance and will create a major roadblock in efforts to improve this state’s business climate.”