Long Island School District Sues Insurers Over Abuse Allegations
May 8, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — A School district lawsuit filed over denied abuse claims in Bay Shore Union Free School District initiated a federal legal battle against Hartford Insurance Group and CNA Insurance. Filed in the U.S. District Court for Eastern New York, the lawsuit accuses both insurers of failing to defend and indemnify the district against 45 sexual abuse claims linked to former elementary school teacher Thomas Bernagozzi. The case underscores growing legal pressure on insurance providers amid a rising number of abuse-related lawsuits under New York’s Child Victims Act. Dozens of Claims Spark Legal Action The district faces 45 lawsuits filed by former students under New York’s Child Victims Act (CVA). The lawsuits allege sexual abuse by Thomas Bernagozzi, a teacher who worked from the 1970s through 2000 at Gardiner Manor and Mary G. Clarkson Elementary Schools. Long Island School District Bernagozzi was criminally charged in 2023 for allegedly abusing two students. He has pleaded not guilty. Roughly half of the civil suits have been settled. However, 18 cases remain unresolved—cases for which the district claims Hartford and CNA should provide insurance coverage under general liability policies issued between 1973 and 1982. $35 Million Bond, $25M Verdict Slashed In 2023, Bay Shore approved a $35 million bond to help fund settlements for 12 claims not covered by insurance. Meanwhile, one lawsuit that went to trial resulted in a $25 million jury award to a victim. A judge later reduced that award to $4 million, pending a new trial on damages unless the victim accepts the lower amount. Other claims have been paid through the New York State Insurance Reciprocal (NYSIR). Insurers Accused of Delay Tactics According to the lawsuit filed on May 2 in U.S. District Court for Eastern New York, the district alleges that both insurers have adopted a “wait-and-see” strategy in the wake of the CVA’s passage. The complaint argues that the insurers: Bay Shore contends that this conduct violates the terms of their contracts, as well as New York state insurance and consumer protection laws. Seeking Accountability and Coverage In its suit, Bay Shore requests a declaratory judgment affirming the insurers’ obligation to cover the remaining lawsuits. The district also seeks damages for breach of contract, bad faith, and violations of state business and insurance laws. Officials argue that the insurers are trying to evade financial responsibility despite issuing policies precisely to cover serious liabilities like those now unfolding. Source FAQs: Long Island School District Lawsuit Explained What triggered the school district lawsuit? The Long Island school district lawsuit stems from insurers allegedly refusing to cover abuse-related claims under decades-old policies. Bay Shore UFSD argues that Hartford and CNA breached contract terms and violated state laws. Learn more from the NY State Courts. How many lawsuits is the Long Island school district facing? Bay Shore Union Free School District is facing 45 lawsuits under the NY Child Victims Act. The Long Island school district lawsuit seeks insurance coverage for 18 unresolved cases not covered by the New York State Insurance Reciprocal. What does the Long Island school district lawsuit demand? The Long Island school district lawsuit seeks a declaratory judgment, damages for breach of contract and bad faith, and an order compelling insurers to provide coverage for pending abuse lawsuits. Stay informed on school liability cases, insurance disputes, and victims’ rights under New York law. Subscribe now to JacobiJournal.com for in-depth legal coverage and exclusive updates. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Cupertino Electric Pays $1.4M in Back Wages for Labor Violations
May 7, 2025 | Jacobijournal.com – Cupertino Electric labor violations have resulted in a $1.4 million payout following a federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor. On May 7, 2025, JacobiJournal.com reported that the San Jose-based electrical engineering and construction firm failed to properly calculate overtime wages for more than 2,600 workers—violations that the Department’s Wage and Hour Division found to be in direct breach of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The case underscores the ongoing scrutiny of wage practices across large infrastructure contractors in California and beyond, as federal agencies ramp up efforts to enforce compliance in industries prone to systemic payroll errors. Over 2,600 Workers Impacted According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, Cupertino Electric labor violations affected more than 2,600 employees across multiple job sites. The investigation revealed that the San Jose-based contractor failed to include non-discretionary bonuses—such as production-based incentives and performance bonuses—when calculating overtime pay rates, a clear violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This miscalculation led to systemic underpayment for overtime hours, depriving employees of legally mandated compensation. The DOL emphasized that such practices not only violate federal labor law but also contribute to broader wage inequity within the construction industry. In response to the enforcement action, Cupertino Electric agreed to pay $1.4 million in combined back wages and civil penalties. The case reinforces federal regulators’ commitment to holding even established contractors accountable for Cupertino Electric labor violations that impact worker rights and payroll integrity. Longstanding Industry Presence Cupertino Electric has long been recognized as a leader in electrical engineering and large-scale infrastructure development, servicing both private and public sector clients nationwide. From commercial campuses to mission-critical facilities, the company’s portfolio spans multiple states and industries. However, the recent Cupertino Electric labor violations expose a troubling disconnect between its operational excellence and internal compliance systems. The Department of Labor’s findings point to persistent gaps in payroll oversight, particularly in the treatment of non-discretionary bonuses—common in performance-driven environments like construction and engineering. These oversights not only compromised wage accuracy for thousands of employees but also signaled a breakdown in regulatory due diligence. For a firm of Cupertino Electric’s scale, such violations may trigger increased federal scrutiny, reputational risks, and calls for improved workforce protections across the broader industry. DOL Reinforces Employer Responsibilities “Employers must accurately calculate overtime pay and include all required compensation, such as bonuses, when determining the correct rate,” said a representative from the Department of Labor. “Failure to do so violates workers’ rights and creates unfair labor conditions.” This case serves as a reminder that even large firms are not exempt from compliance. Employers must regularly audit their payroll systems to avoid wage violations that could result in costly penalties. Source FAQs: Cupertino Electric Labor Violations and FLSA Compliance What labor laws did Cupertino Electric violate? Cupertino Electric labor violations stemmed from improper overtime calculations under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The company failed to include non-discretionary bonuses in the overtime pay rate, violating federal wage laws. How many workers were affected by Cupertino Electric labor violations? Over 2,600 employees were impacted by Cupertino Electric labor violations. These workers were underpaid for overtime, prompting the Department of Labor to enforce back pay and penalties totaling $1.4 million. What should employers learn from Cupertino Electric labor violations? Cupertino Electric labor violations highlight the importance of correctly calculating overtime pay, including performance bonuses. Employers should regularly audit payroll systems to stay FLSA-compliant and avoid federal penalties. For more updates on labor enforcement, wage recovery cases, and employment law compliance, subscribe now to JacobiJournal.com. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Ex-State Trooper Convicted of Bribery and Fraud in CDL Testing Scheme
May 6, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com – CDL testing fraud has come under sharp scrutiny following the conviction of former Massachusetts State Trooper Gary Cederquist, who was found guilty on nearly 50 counts related to bribery and falsifying commercial driver’s license exam results. The case has exposed significant vulnerabilities in the state’s licensing system and raised serious concerns about public safety and regulatory oversight. Bribes Exchanged for Fake Passing Scores Ex-State Trooper Cederquist, 59, of Stoughton, accepted illicit payments including a new snowblower and driveway paving in return for issuing fake passing scores to unqualified CDL applicants. Instead of upholding testing standards, he passed at least 17 drivers who had failed their tests — actions that endangered public safety. The conspiracy took place between May 2019 and January 2023, according to federal prosecutors. Cederquist and other troopers used coded text messages, often saying the applicant was “golden,” to signal they had falsely passed someone. In one case, a trooper joked about how poorly a driver performed, but passed them anyway. Prosecutors Condemn Violation of Duty “Cederquist chose bribery and extortion over his oath to protect the community,” said U.S. Attorney Leah Foley. “His actions placed unqualified drivers behind the wheels of heavy vehicles, threatening everyone on the road.” The jury convicted him of conspiracy to commit extortion, honest services mail fraud, and extortion, among other charges. Four co-defendants, including two civilians and two troopers, have already pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Broader Pattern of Corruption This is not an isolated incident. In recent years, the Massachusetts State Police has dealt with multiple scandals. For instance, 46 troopers from Troop E, which patrolled the Massachusetts Turnpike, were caught falsifying overtime records between 2015 and 2017. They submitted fake traffic citations to justify pay for shifts they didn’t work. Deadly Consequences and Systemic Failures The CDL testing scandal follows a tragic 2019 crash in New Hampshire, where commercial truck driver Volodymyr Zhukovskyy killed seven motorcyclists. At the time, he should have lost his CDL due to a DUI arrest in Connecticut. Although Connecticut officials notified Massachusetts, the license was never suspended due to a backlog in processing such alerts. State Implements Reforms In response to these issues, Massachusetts officials have implemented several reforms: These reforms aim to restore integrity in a system where, in 2022, only 41% of CDL applicants passed — a statistic that underscores the importance of honest testing. Source FAQs: CDL Testing Fraud Conviction What is CDL testing fraud and why is it dangerous? CDL testing fraud occurs when unqualified drivers are illegally granted commercial driver’s licenses. This endangers public safety by putting inadequately trained drivers behind the wheel of heavy vehicles on public roads. How was the ex-state trooper involved in CDL testing fraud? The ex-state trooper accepted bribes like cash and goods in exchange for falsifying CDL test scores. He passed drivers who had failed their exams, using coded messages to coordinate the fraud. What reforms have been introduced after the CDL testing fraud case? Following the conviction, Massachusetts implemented reforms such as mandatory body cameras during exams, surprise supervisor visits, and stricter training protocols to prevent future CDL testing fraud. For more updates on transportation fraud cases, public corruption prosecutions, and federal compliance reforms, subscribe now to JacobiJournal.com. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
North Carolina Man Faces 21 Felony Charges for ID Theft, Insurance Fraud
May 06, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com – North Carolina Man: A 30-year-old man faces 21 felony charges after allegedly stealing multiple identities and filing fraudulent auto insurance claims with several major carriers. Fraud Spanned Six Months and Four Insurers According to the North Carolina Department of Insurance (NCDOI), Damain Rayshawn Cummings assumed the identities of at least six individuals between September 2024 and March 2025. During that time, he filed false auto claims with Progressive, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate. North Carolina Man Investigation Led by NCDOI Authorities became aware of the scheme after suspicious activity flagged several claims. NCDOI investigators launched a full investigation and uncovered evidence suggesting that Cummings accessed victims’ personal data—potentially through birth certificates and email accounts. He was arrested and appeared in court on April 30, where he was later released on a $300,000 bond. Charges Include Insurance Fraud and Identity Theft The charges include multiple counts of insurance fraud, identity theft, and theft by deception. Officials said the case underscores the ongoing risk of identity-based insurance scams in North Carolina and across the country. Authorities Urge Vigilance State officials are encouraging residents to monitor their insurance records, review credit reports, and report any unauthorized claims immediately. The NCDOI continues to investigate whether additional individuals were affected. Source FAQs: About the North Carolina Man Insurance Fraud Case What charges does the North Carolina man face in the ID theft and insurance fraud case? The North Carolina man is facing 21 felony charges, including multiple counts of insurance fraud, identity theft, and theft by deception. How did authorities catch the North Carolina man accused of insurance fraud? Investigators from the North Carolina Department of Insurance discovered suspicious claims activity, which led to uncovering the North Carolina man’s alleged identity theft scheme. What steps can protect against schemes like the one involving the North Carolina man? Residents are advised to review insurance policies regularly, monitor credit reports, and immediately report any suspicious claims to the North Carolina Department of Insurance. Track major fraud cases, workers’ comp litigation, and insurance crime news at JacobiJournal.com — your trusted source for updates and expert insights. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Court Overturns $1.84 Million Jury Award for Work Injury Claim
May 5, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Work injury claim overturned: a California appellate court overturned a $1.84 million jury verdict awarded to a subcontractor’s employee who was injured on the job. The ruling highlights the limits of liability for general contractors in workplace injury lawsuits Worker Claimed Unsafe Conditions Caused Injury The injured worker sued the general contractor after falling through an unguarded skylight. He alleged that unsafe work conditions were to blame. A jury initially agreed and awarded him nearly $2 million in damages. Defense Challenged Liability However, the defense argued that the worker was not authorized to be in the area where he fell. They claimed he acted outside the scope of his job duties and ignored safety rules. The general contractor filed a motion for nonsuit, asserting they had no legal duty in this specific situation. Appellate Court Overturns Verdict On appeal, the court found that the general contractor did not owe the injured worker a duty of care. They emphasized that general contractors are not automatically responsible for the safety of subcontractor employees—especially when those employees violate safety protocols. Moreover, the court noted that the worker’s own employer bore primary responsibility for his supervision and safety. Broader Implications This decision may influence future workplace injury lawsuits in California. It clarifies that general contractors are not liable unless they directly control the worksite in a way that contributes to the injury. Therefore, injured workers must prove more than just unsafe conditions—they must show a clear duty of care. Source: Court Overturns $1.84 Million Jury Award for Work Injury Claim FAQs: About the California Work Injury Claim Ruling What happened in the California work injury claim case? A California appellate court overturned a $1.84 million jury award in a work injury claim, ruling the general contractor was not legally responsible. Why was the work injury claim verdict overturned? The court found that the general contractor did not owe a duty of care in this work injury claim because the injured worker violated safety protocols. What does this ruling mean for future work injury claim cases? Future work injury claim cases may require workers to prove that a general contractor had direct control over unsafe conditions that caused the injury. Get expert insights into legal trends, verdicts, and policy shifts affecting workers’ compensation law. Visit JacobiJournal.com for the latest updates and expert commentary on high-stakes litigation. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Court Rejects Carpool Exception to Going-and-Coming Rule, No Liability Found
May 02, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Workers compensation commute rule was at the center of a recent California appellate decision involving a disputed carpool exception. On May 2, 2025, JacobiJournal.com reported that the court reaffirmed the long-standing “going-and-coming rule,” holding that an employee injured while carpooling in a privately arranged ride with a co-worker was not entitled to employer liability coverage—even though the co-worker received a small travel stipend from the employer. Background: The Going-and-Coming Rule Under California workers’ compensation and liability law, the workers compensation commute rule—also known as the going-and-coming rule—generally exempts employers from liability for employee injuries or torts that occur during the employee’s commute to and from work. Exceptions to this rule exist, particularly when the commute is considered part of the scope of employment or when the employer receives a direct benefit from providing or arranging transportation. Case Details The case involved an employee who was injured in a car accident while carpooling with a co-worker. The co-worker had coordinated the carpool arrangement informally and received a modest stipend from the employer intended to encourage carpooling and reduce parking congestion. In its analysis, the court reviewed whether this situation could qualify as an exception under the workers compensation commute rule, which determines when an employer can be held liable for commute-related injuries. Ultimately, the court found that the stipend did not transform the co-worker into an agent of the employer, nor did it constitute sufficient employer control to make the carpool trip fall within the course of employment. The ruling emphasized that the workers compensation commute rule continues to exclude most voluntary carpools from coverage, even when small incentives are provided, unless the employer directly mandates or manages the transportation arrangement. Court’s Reasoning Court Rejects Carpool Exception, The panel emphasized that the employer neither mandated the carpool nor exercised control over the transportation. Therefore, the injury sustained during the commute remained outside the scope of employment. The court declined to extend liability under the exception to the going-and-coming rule, noting that doing so would significantly blur the boundary between personal and work-related travel. This decision reaffirms longstanding precedent that voluntary carpools typically do not qualify for exceptions to the going-and-coming rule—even when small employer incentives are involved. Source FAQs: About the Workers Compensation Commute Rule What is the workers compensation commute rule? The workers compensation commute rule limits employer liability for injuries sustained during an employee’s normal commute. Are carpools covered under the workers compensation commute rule? Generally, voluntary carpools are not covered unless they are required or directly controlled by the employer. Why does the workers compensation commute rule matter? It sets clear boundaries between personal travel and work duties, helping define when injuries are work-related. Can employer-provided stipends affect the workers compensation commute rule? In most cases, small employer-provided travel stipends do not override the workers compensation commute rule. Unless the employer exerts significant control over the transportation or makes it a work requirement, commute-related injuries typically remain outside the scope of workers’ compensation coverage. How does the workers compensation commute rule apply to remote or hybrid employees? For remote or hybrid employees, the workers compensation commute rule usually applies only to travel between home and the employer’s physical workplace. Trips made purely for personal reasons are not covered, but if travel is required for a specific work assignment, different rules may apply. Want to stay ahead of legal developments in employment and workers’ compensation? Visit JacobiJournal.com for detailed case law analysis, fraud updates, and court rulings that matter to legal, insurance, and HR professionals. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
San Joaquin County DA Secures Felony Conviction in Workers’ Comp Fraud Case
May 02, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com – San Joaquin workers comp fraud enforcement took center stage as the County DA’s Office secured a felony conviction in a high-profile case, reinforcing its strong stance against insurance fraud and abuse in the region. Stacy Johnson pled guilty to two felony charges: Penal Code 487 (Grand Theft) and Penal Code 550(b)(3) (Insurance Fraud). As a result, he was sentenced to four months in County Jail, two years of felony probation, and ordered to pay $3,000 in investigative restitution and $2,000 to his former employer, Amazon, for the stolen goods. San Joaquin Workers Comp Fraud: Faked Robbery and Claim According to prosecutors, Johnson conspired with others to stage a robbery of an Amazon delivery truck he was driving. He then filed a fraudulent workers’ compensation claim, falsely citing “physiological injuries and stress” as a result of the staged incident. This case of San Joaquin workers comp fraud highlights how individuals may attempt to exploit the system for financial gain through deceitful means. If the fraud had not been detected, the false claim could have cost an estimated $35,000—a burden likely to be passed on to consumers through increased prices and higher insurance premiums for local businesses. The successful prosecution of this San Joaquin workers comp fraud serves as a warning that such criminal acts will face serious consequences. DA’s Office Sends a Message District Attorney Ron Freitas emphasized the broader implications of San Joaquin workers comp fraud, stating: “Workers’ compensation fraud is NOT a victimless crime — it affects all of us. It drives up costs for local businesses and raises prices for the goods we rely on every day.” Freitas added that the DA’s ongoing outreach campaign makes it clear: San Joaquin County will not tolerate workers’ comp fraud. Those San Joaquin workers who commit it will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Impact of San Joaquin Workers Comp Fraud on Local Employers and Consumers This San Joaquin workers comp fraud case underscores the significant financial and social impact such crimes have on the community. When fraudulent claims are filed, local employers like Amazon face increased insurance premiums, which can lead to higher operational costs. These costs often trickle down to consumers through elevated prices on everyday goods and services. Moreover, legitimate injured workers may experience delays or increased scrutiny in receiving their rightful benefits due to the increased burden on the workers’ compensation system. By prosecuting San Joaquin workers comp fraud aggressively, the DA’s Office helps protect honest workers and local businesses, ensuring that the workers’ compensation system remains fair and sustainable for everyone involved. This case serves as a clear deterrent to potential fraudsters and reinforces the message that deceitful practices will be met with serious legal consequences. Source: San Joaquin County DA Office FAQs: San Joaquin Workers Comp Fraud What is the penalty for San Joaquin workers comp fraud? Penalties for San Joaquin workers comp fraud can include jail or prison time, probation, restitution payments, and a permanent felony record, depending on the severity of the offense. How does the DA detect workers comp fraud cases? The San Joaquin County DA’s Office works with insurance investigators, employers, and law enforcement to gather evidence such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and claim records to uncover fraudulent activity. Why is prosecuting San Joaquin workers comp fraud important? Prosecuting San Joaquin workers comp fraud helps protect honest workers, keeps insurance premiums stable for employers, and prevents higher costs for consumers. Explore the latest case law, convictions, and enforcement efforts at JacobiJournal.com. We deliver expert insights to help professionals stay informed and protected. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Cargo Theft Surges in 2024, Led by California, Texas, and Florida
April 30, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Cargo Theft Surges in North America, with California, Texas, and Florida accounting for more than half of all incidents in 2024, according to a newly released report by GearTrack and Verisk’s CargoNet. These states alone made up 54% of all reported thefts, as organized crime groups target key logistics corridors and multimodal hubs. Multimodal Hubs and Ports Under Threat The report highlights ongoing risks around California and Texas freight corridors, as well as near Chicago’s intermodal facilities. Additionally, Florida ports are seeing a concerning uptick in activity, underscoring the broader vulnerability of high-traffic freight routes. Thieves are increasingly drawn to high-volume shipping points where goods are temporarily staged, loaded, or in transit. As a result, companies moving freight through these areas face growing exposure to losses. High-Value Goods Are Top Targets While nearly all types of cargo face risk, several categories have emerged as especially attractive to criminals: These categories are favored not only for their market value but also due to their ease of redistribution and resale. Organized Crime Adopts Sophisticated Tactics Cargo Theft Surges: The report also emphasizes how organized theft groups are deploying more advanced schemes to avoid detection and maximize returns. Strategies now include: This evolving threat landscape highlights the need for real-time intelligence and enhanced verification processes. Industry Collaboration Offers New Tools for Prevention In response, GearTrack and CargoNet have partnered to provide 24/7 cargo recovery support and access to Verisk’s theft and fraud analytics tools. The collaboration will also launch the GearTrack Cargo Security Index, a monthly digest powered by CargoNet’s data to track national and regional theft patterns. “Through this partnership, customers will gain timely risk alerts and actionable insights,” the report notes, adding that real-time data can help logistics providers respond faster and adapt to new threat vectors. Protect your shipments and stay ahead of cargo thieves — visit CargoNet for expert prevention and recovery resources. FAQs: About Cargo Theft Trends What states saw the highest cargo theft in 2024? California, Texas, and Florida led the nation in cargo theft incidents in 2024, accounting for more than half of all reported cases. Which goods are most targeted in cargo theft cases? Food and beverages, household goods, and vehicles or accessories are among the most frequently stolen items in cargo theft operations. How can businesses protect against cargo theft? Companies can reduce cargo theft risks by using real-time tracking, verifying pick-up documents, and collaborating with industry security networks. Stay informed on cargo security, fraud trends, and insurance insights. Visit JacobiJournal.com for weekly updates and expert analysis. Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Demand for Medical Evaluators Outpaces Growth in CA Workers’ Comp System
April 28, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Demand for medical evaluators in California’s workers’ compensation system continues to climb, revealing a growing gap between available resources and case volume. Although the state has seen a 16% increase in qualified medical evaluators (QMEs) since 2019, the latest report shows that the demand for medical evaluators is rising at an even faster pace. This imbalance is leaving injured workers, employers, and claims administrators grappling with longer delays in the resolution of disputes. Evaluator Numbers Rise After Payment Structure Reform According to an analysis by the California Workers’ Compensation Institute (CWCI), the number of state-certified evaluators climbed from 2,561 in 2019 to 2,972 in 2024. Much of this growth followed the 2021 overhaul of California’s medical-legal fee schedule. Previously, medical-legal evaluations operated under a complex three-tiered payment system. However, reforms introduced a flat fee model with additional compensation for record reviews and certain specialties. These changes were designed to improve financial incentives and attract more physicians to meet the rising demand for medical evaluators statewide. Demand Surges Despite More Evaluators Nevertheless, panel requests — which are filed when disputes arise over issues like injury causation, disability levels, or treatment plans — grew even faster than the evaluator pool. Between 2019 and 2024, panel requests jumped by 17%, and from 2021 to 2024 alone, they surged by 32.7%, CWCI reported. Thus, while the evaluator workforce expanded, the intensified demand has undercut availability gains, leaving injured workers and claims administrators grappling with longer wait times. Specialty Shortages Create Additional Strains The report further highlights that although some specialties added more evaluators, they still struggled to meet rising panel demands. For example: Worryingly, psychology was the only specialty where evaluator numbers actually declined, dropping 8% over the six-year span. These specialty shortages signal deeper systemic pressures, particularly in mental health-related evaluations where claims complexity often requires specialized expertise. Outlook: Reform Efforts Must Continue The CWCI analysis underscores that payment structure reforms, while necessary, are not sufficient on their own. Additional measures may be needed to ensure timely access to qualified evaluators, especially as the demand for medical evaluators continues to grow and workers’ compensation disputes become more intricate and medically complex. Source: CWCI FAQs: Demand for Medical Evaluators in California Why is the demand for medical evaluators increasing in California? Disputes over injury causation, disability, and treatment plans have surged, driving a sharp rise in panel requests for qualified medical evaluators. Which specialties face the biggest shortages in California’s workers’ comp system? Specialties like psychology, neurology, psychiatry, and internal medicine face high demand, with psychology evaluator numbers actually declining. How is California addressing the shortage of medical evaluators? Reforms to the medical-legal fee schedule aim to improve participation, but experts say additional measures are needed to meet growing demand. What impact does the shortage of evaluators have on injured workers? Limited access to evaluators often leads to longer wait times, delaying case resolutions and potentially prolonging recovery periods for injured workers. Where can I find official information about this? The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) provides official updates, guidelines, and resources for medical evaluators at the Department of Industrial Relations website. Stay updated on workers’ comp reforms, labor law developments, and medical-legal news at JacobiJournal.com. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com:
Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Approve $807M Maui Wildfire Victim Fund
April 28, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Maui wildfire victim fund approval: In a rare moment of bipartisan unity, the Hawaiʻi Legislature approved an $807 million contribution to the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund, marking a major step toward compensating victims of the devastating August 2023 fires. Applause even broke out during the committee hearing—a scene seldom witnessed at the Capitol. Funding a Landmark $4 Billion Global Settlement Hawaiʻi Lawmakers Approve: The newly approved legislation, House Bill 1001, commits the state to deposit $807 million over the next four years. This amount represents Hawaiʻi’s share of a larger $4.04 billion settlement that also includes: These funds will compensate over 1,000 homeowners, businesses, and families who suffered property loss, personal injury, wrongful death, and emotional distress from the wildfires. Legal Approval and Remaining Hurdles Importantly, the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court already approved the global settlement in February 2025, rejecting opposition from nearly 200 insurers who had paid out over $2.3 billion to policyholders. Nevertheless, some final approvals are still pending. Specifically, Kamehameha Schools must secure clearance from the state probate court and the IRS before releasing its share. Meanwhile, HECO has already raised $500 million for its first installment. Direct Aid and Ongoing Support Efforts In addition to the settlement fund, the state previously contributed $65 million to the One ʻOhana Fund, a separate wildfire assistance initiative. Other key contributors to One ʻOhana include: Although about one-third of the total settlement will go to legal fees, officials emphasized that the priority remains helping families rebuild and heal. “This settlement offers a timely and compassionate resolution,” stated Rep. David Tarnas, who helped negotiate HB 1001’s passage. Impact on the Community The Lahaina wildfires took 102 lives and caused unprecedented damage. By offering swift compensation through the trust fund, lawmakers aim to relieve pressure on the judicial system and provide immediate financial relief to impacted residents. Moreover, the funding signals a commitment to rebuild Lahaina and ensure stronger protections against future disasters. Source: Honolulu Civil Beat FAQs: Maui Wildfire Victim Fund Settlement What is the Maui wildfire victim fund? The Maui wildfire victim fund is a $4 billion settlement trust established to compensate residents, businesses, and families impacted by the August 2023 Lahaina wildfires. How much is Hawaiʻi contributing to the Maui wildfire victim fund? Hawaiʻi lawmakers have committed $807 million over four years as part of the larger $4.04 billion settlement agreement. Who else is contributing to the Maui wildfire victim fund? Major contributors include Hawaiian Electric Co., Kamehameha Schools, West Maui landowners, Hawaiian Telcom, and Spectrum. More details can be found in the Hawaiʻi State Legislature bill summary. For the latest updates on legal settlements, disaster recovery, and insurance fraud, visit JacobiJournal.com. 🔎 Read More from JacobiJournal.com: