Author: Elyse Waters

October 11, 2023
by Elyse Waters

The Oregon Legislature has been busy this year!

You have probably heard about House Bill 3471 which changed the way defense counsel and adjusters settle workers’ compensation claims, specifically with regard to employment…

April 18, 2023
by Elyse Waters

Climate change shapes the Department’s proposed rule changes for outdoor heat exposure safety in Washington

Summer is right around the corner and every year, outdoor temperatures are rising due to climate change. Before the first heat wave sets in, now…

November 2, 2022
by Elyse Waters

Securing Claim Closure in Washington

So you want to close a claim or secure settlement of a claim but the worker isn’t old enough for a claim resolution settlement agreement…

June 1, 2022
by Elyse Waters

Oregon WCD Issues Proposed Draft Rules for Dancingbear

Last October, SBH attorney Anna McFaul wrote a blog covering the Dancingbear v. SAIF decision issued by the Oregon Court of Appeals. As you likely…

February 2, 2022
by Elyse Waters

Take Note: Potential Implications for Oregon COVID Claims?

The Court of Appeals recently issued an opinion in Rogers v. Corvel Enterprise Comp. Inc., 317 Or App 116 (2022) that could have negative implications…

September 29, 2021
by Elyse Waters

Status of In-Person Hearings in Oregon

As we wrap up the 18th month of the COVID-19 pandemic, what does the future hold for Oregon workers’ compensation in-person hearings? The Board remains…

May 27, 2021
by Elyse Waters

Unreasonable Claim Closure in Oregon: Why Chronic Condition Impairment Matters

The time has come to close your claim. Your claim closure checklist likely has a section for “chronic condition” impairment but how can you be…

January 27, 2021
by Elyse Waters

Oregon’s 2021 Legislative Session has Started: SBH’s Watchlist

The Oregon State legislative session for 2021 is underway and we have seen several bills introduced in the House and the Senate that will be…

September 30, 2020
by Elyse Waters

As the COVID pandemic continues, where does the Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division stand on telemedicine?

In March 2020, the Division set out temporary rules to address fees related to telemedicine appointments following Governor Brown’s “Stay at Home Order.” The temporary…

June 3, 2020
by Elyse Waters

In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon Court of Appeals issues troubling ruling for processing new/omitted condition claims

The Oregon Court of Appeals issued its decision in Coleman v. SAIF, 304 Or App 122 (2020) on May 13, 2020. Claimant filed a claim…