Governor Donald L. Carcieri today announced that the Department of Labor and Training is taking steps to revamp Rhode Island's Workers' Compensation Program. Workers' Compensation has been a mandatory program in Rhode Island since its inception in 1912, when it was required of employers of four or more. In January 1999, the law was modified to require employers of one or more at any time to have coverage.
"It is imperative that we work aggressively to ensure that workers' compensation coverage is retained by all who are required to have it," said Governor Carcieri. "We are making progress and will continue to work to enforce the law."
The following actions are in process or anticipated:
* The Division of Taxation employer tax I.D. number will be required on all workers' compensation insurance policies reported to the Department of Labor and Training. This action will provide cross-matching capabilities and employer notification for workers' compensation requirements. It is anticipated this change will be completely implemented by January 1, 2004.
* Automated queue letters will be generated off of the Unemployment Insurance (UI) computer system notifying all newly registered employers that they must carry workers' compensation insurance.
* Public notices will be placed in local newspapers listing names of employers who have not had Workers Compensation insurance, stating the penalty for not having coverage. Press releases will be issued to other media. Hopefully, this will send a message to the uninsured.
* Department Rules and Regulations will be revised relative to penalties and sanctions. Stop work orders will be issued when appropriate.
* Intense investigative focus on all businesses holding liquor licenses is in process. The following statistics reflect the activity as of May 14, 2003:
* Total alcohol licensed locations identified thus far: 1725
* From the above number, the number checked thus far: 1725
* From the above number, the number found in compliance thus far: 1221
* Hearings held to date and/or scheduled since the beginning of the alcohol establishment review: 25