Newberry files Workers’ Compensation Anti-Fraud Act

A state Senator has filed legislation to combat fraud and abuse in the workers’ compensation system by authorizing the Oklahoma Attorney General to hire additional fraud investigators.

Sen. Dan Newberry said the Workers’ Compensation Anti-Fraud Act is part of a continued effort to reduce costs to businesses while protecting the rights of injured workers.

“We’ve made tremendous progress toward repairing our workers’ compensation system, but we still must continue to combat fraud and abuse,” said Newberry, R-Tulsa. “This measure is the next step in developing a modern, streamlined system that protects workers at the lowest possible cost. By eliminating workers’ comp fraud, we will lower the cost of doing business in Oklahoma.”

Newberry’s proposal will allow the office of the Attorney General to hire, or contract with, additional investigators to review workers’ comp claims.

“If we hope to maintain and improve our status as a leading competitor for job creation, we must continue to reduce our workers’ compensation insurance premiums,” Newberry said. “While we have made great progress with previous reform efforts, we need to remain proactive. This legislation will help level the playing field for Oklahoma businesses.”

Rep. Randy McDaniel, co-author of the proposal, said reforms are necessary to ensure the best business climate in Oklahoma.

“We’ve made improvements to the workers’ compensation system, but I think we must continue making reforms to ensure the best possible business climate in our state,” McDaniel, R-Oklahoma City, said. “Fraud drives up workers’ compensation insurance premiums and must be addressed.”