Washington state law boosts employer reimbursements for return-to-work incentive programs

Tumwater, WA — A Washington state law that increases maximum reimbursements to employers in the Stay at Work and Preferred Worker programs is set to go into effect Jan. 1.

“The Stay at Work Program and the Preferred Worker Program provide financial incentives to employers when they help injured workers return to approved work within their restrictions,” a Washington Department of Labor & Industries press release states.

Signed into law in March, H.B. 2127 increases the maximum number of days that employers can get reimbursed for paying workers who have transitioned to lighter duty or are permanently restricted on the job (a “preferred worker”).

Employers can receive reimbursements for 50% of their employee’s wages for 120 days instead of 66 days. The law also increases reimbursements for tools and equipment, training, or clothing provided to workers in their new roles.

Early next year, Washington L&I will host a series of webinars on the Stay at Work Program, how to apply for reimbursement in the program, the Preferred Worker Program and return-to-work incentives.