7350 Department of Industrial Relations
Program Descriptions

30 - WORKERS' COMPENSATION

The Division of Workers' Compensation monitors administration of workers' compensation claims, attempts to minimize disputes through outreach to employers and injured workers by providing program information and assistance, and provides administrative and judicial services to resolve disputes that arise in connection with claims for workers' compensation benefits. The Division conducts audits of workers' compensation claims administrators to ensure compliance with the benefit delivery system required by the Labor Code, and authorizes payment of workers' compensation benefits to injured workers from the Uninsured Employers Benefit Trust Fund and the Subsequent Injuries Benefit Trust Fund. The Division attempts to promote the practice of early and sustained return to work of injured employees with limited reimbursements from the Return to Work Fund. The Division also administers a workers' compensation information system designed to provide information to policymakers regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of the benefit delivery system.

The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board reviews petitions for reconsideration of decisions issued by the workers' compensation judges of the Division of Workers' Compensation, participates in appellate proceedings as necessary or when requested by the court, and regulates the workers' compensation adjudication process.