Press Releases

The Subcommittee on Workforce Protections, chaired by Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), today held a hearing on federal workers' compensation. In the Federal Employees' Compensation Act of 1916 (FECA), Congress established a program for federal workers to receive compensation in the event of a work-related injury or illness. The hearing, "Reviewing Workers Compensation for Federal Employees," examined reforms proposed by the U.S. Department of Labor intended to improve the program for both workers and taxpayers.

During his opening remarks, Chairman Walberg said, "As with any federal program left unchecked, waste and inefficiencies often emerge and can result in a program that serves neither workers nor taxpayers well. This is unacceptable. In recent years, the challenges facing the FECA program have become more and more evident." He concluded, "Especially during times of economic uncertainty and trillion-dollar deficits, it is critical policymakers work to ensure every taxpayer dollar is being well-spent. Any opportunity to better serve workers in need of assistance and spend taxpayer dollars more efficiently should be encouraged. I look forward to working with all of my colleagues in advancing this shared goal."

To read Chairman Walberg's full remarks, witness testimony, or view an archived hearing webcast, visit /hearings.

 

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