Workers Comp Matters : The International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions

Recently, a few states have pushed for the ability to allow companies to remove themselves from the state-regulated workers’ compensation system. What effects would this have on employers and their employees? What discussions are being had about the repercussions these employer-designed benefit packages could have on workers’ compensation in America? In this episode of Workers Comp Matters, host Alan Pierce talks with Jennifer Wolf Horejsh about the International Association of Industrial Accident Boards and Commissions (IAIABC) and the recent challenges to workers’ compensation in the United States. Jennifer begins the interview by stating that the mission of the IAIABC is to advance the efficiency and effectiveness of workers’ comp systems around the world. The organization aims to connect industry professionals to identify emerging issues, develop resources, and reinforce the social purpose of workers’ compensation programs. She gives a brief history of the origins of the IAIABC, an overview of their membership numbers around the world, and reflects on her background and how she became executive director of the IAIABC. She talks about the first national conversation on workers’ comp hosted by the IAIABC at their most recent conference and closes the interview with an analysis of the recently proposed employer-designed optout benefit plans, a system of alternatives to workers’ comp, and their potential effects for the average employee. Jennifer Wolf Horejsh has been with the IAIABC since 2002 and has served as executive director since 2012. She works closely with the IAIABC Board of Directors to implement initiatives that enhance the association’s reputation as a global expert on the regulation and administration of workers’ compensation. Jennifer closely monitors industry developments and trends, using this information to develop conference and educational content and respond to member questions and information requests. Jennifer has written articles and presented on various worker’s compensation topics. Special thanks to our sponsors, Casepacer and PInow.