Workers comp in WV

There are too many jokes about the old workers comp system in West Virginia and too many true stories to list here. But let’s try a couple.

Joke (abridged version): Jesus returns to earth and offers to heal a man with a withered arm. “Get away from me,” the man says, “or I’ll lose my check.”

Real story: A few years ago, a person who owns a Huntington business said he was approached at least once a week by an able-bodied person wanting to work, but for cash only. Otherwise, workers comp might find out and take away the job hunter’s disability check.

Workers comp in West Virginia is no longer a political tool. Since BrickStreet took over workers comp earlier this year, it's been run as a business. No longer is workers comp a means to reward your friends or hurt your enemies.

BrickStreet and the state Insurance Commission are going after employers who shirk their responsibilities. Last week, the Insurance Commission began posting notices on doors of businesses that were delinquent in their premiums. The notices warned employees they were working without workers comp coverage, and they warned employers they could be held personally liable for the cost of treating on-the-job accidents.

Such steps are long overdue. Right?