Post-Pandemic Changes in PA Workers' Compensation Procedures

According to the Pennsylvania Bar Association Workers' Compensation Law Section, and based upon Pennsylvania lifting the mask mandate, Workers' Compensation offices are scheduled to reopen on August 16, 2021, throughout the Commonwealth. There are Workers' Compensation Judges throughout PA, and each Judge has the flexibility and discretion to schedule their hearings and mediations in person or virtually. The decision to go back in person or virtually can also depend on the type of hearing involved.

If the hearings are settlement or status hearings, these would most likely have a better chance of being held virtually, as opposed to hearings requiring the injured worker's (claimant's) or other fact witness' testimony, where the involved Judge would need to assess credibility.

Also, as part of the change, the PA Workers' Compensation Appeal Board will still hear oral arguments virtually, but as of July 1, 2021, parties can request live oral arguments through the automated workers' compensation system, WCAIS.

Lastly, the PA legislature passed legislation extending the suspension of the witness requirement for settlement agreements, known as Compromise & Release Agreements, as well as the notarization requirement for all Notification of Modification and Suspension Forms until September 30, 2021. If you have any questions about workers' compensation procedures for your work injury, call Robinson Law LLC at (215) 804-9924">(215) 804-9924 or visit www.robinsonlwyr.com.