State of the States June 26, 2026

National – CompScience released a whitepaper, From Boomers to Zoomers: Rethinking Safety Training for a Multi-Generational Workforce, examining safety training approaches for a workforce spanning Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. The report identifies challenges associated with multiple generations working together, including differences in communication styles, learning preferences, and workplace expectations, as well as the impact of “unretirement.” It states traditional one-size-fits-all training models are insufficient and outlines alternative approaches, including blended learning, cross-generational mentorship, personalized training pathways, and the use of technology and AI in safety programs.

Arizona – Earlier this week, Governor Katie Hobbs enacted SB 1215. The law identifies adenocarcinoma as a cancer presumed compensable for first responders and applies retroactively to June 30, 2021. It also includes an itemized list of cancers covered under the presumption, including bladder cancer, brain cancer, colon cancer, mesothelioma of the respiratory tract, and adenocarcinoma.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs is seeking public input on methods for testing hearing and best practices for evaluating occupational hearing loss, including the reliability of traditional audiograms and newer objective testing technologies. Comments can be submitted online at Regulations.gov or by mail and are due by October 22, 2026.

New Hampshire – Governor Kelly Ayotte enacted SB 655 earlier this week. The law, which takes effect August 11, requires all employee leasing arrangements to explicitly specify whether the leasing company or the client company is responsible for securing and maintaining workers’ compensation insurance.

Texas – The Texas Department of Insurance’s Division of Workers’ Compensation released a report on designated doctor performance from 2020 to 2024. The report found the number of designated doctors declined slightly, while annual exam volume remained steady at about 27,000. Most exams were performed by doctors using scheduling agents. About one-third of appointments were rescheduled, and most often because the designated doctor was unavailable. The report also found designated doctor opinions were upheld in most disputes and most doctors received average or high-performance ratings.

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