National: Workers’ Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) will host a 30-minute webinar to discuss its findings from Psychosocial Factors and Functional Outcomes Following Physical Therapy. The study explores how risk factors such as poor recovery expectations, fear avoidance, poor coping, catastrophizing, and perceived injustice affect recovery in injured workers undergoing physical therapy. The webinar will take place on January 15th from 2-2:30pm ET. Registration is now open, webinars are free for members and $50 for non-members.
WorkCompWire recently published an article by Sherry Wilson, EVP & Chief Compliance Officer at Jopari, titled “The New Compliance Imperative.” Wilson emphasizes that compliance in workers’ compensation is evolving from a reporting requirement to a strategic necessity. With 46 states considering AI-related legislation, she calls for “governed automation” to ensure transparency, auditability, and interoperability as organizations modernize.
The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) released an insight report which explores whether the long-term downward trend in workers’ compensation loss costs and rate changes is nearing a turning point. While these costs have consistently declined for over a decade, the pace of that decline has moderated in recent years. Despite potential headwinds, NCCI anticipates modest continued decreases.
WorkCompWire announced the “Out Front Ideas Webinar: 20 Issues to Watch in 2026,” scheduled for January 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. CT. This annual webinar will explore pressing industry challenges, including mental health’s impact on claims, rising litigation costs, and the effects of AI on claims handling and workforce dynamics. Registration is open and includes access to the recording afterwards.
Colorado: The Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) tightens standards for psychological reports starting January 1, 2026. The updated rule requires reports to include detailed symptom analysis, cognitive assessments, treatment history, and recommendations, aiming to improve consistency in workers’ compensation cases.
Florida: The Florida Department of Insurance Regulation will hold its 2026 Insurance Summit on April 14-15 in Tallahassee. Registration is required and will open in early January.
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