Law Office Of William F Underwood III

While social benefit systems, including Social Security retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act have been expanding in recent years, the systems that comprise the workers’ compensation safety net have been shrinking. Following the creation of the National Commission on State Workmen’s Compensation Laws in 1970, states across the country began to implement the recommendations of the Commission. This resulted in far more robust protection of workers’ rights and safety. However, as a comprehensive Department of Labor report on the subject states, “By the mid-’80s … it became clear that federal intervention was improbable and the motivation to conform to the National Commission’s recommendations dwindled.” Benefits received massive cuts in many states, and restrictions on access to benefits increased. Recently, numerous states have further slashed benefits, including changes that have resulted in the denial of previously compensable claims, among many other dispiriting avenues. Several state legislators are still committed to reducing workers’ compensation costs, and as the DOL report states, “proposals for statutory amendments that restrict workers’ benefits or access have become increasingly bold.” This is all to say that since the mid-’80s, our country has steadily been moving further and further from the National Commission’s original recommendations. The burden of proof is higher than ever for injured

workers. Not only that, but employers have more control over benefits and claims processing. As the cost shifts from states and employers to workers, more stress is put on Medicare and Social Security Disability Insurance. Perhaps most troubling, as the costs of injuries shift onto workers and their families, employers have fewer monetary incentives to eliminate or prevent workplace hazards. This situation is untenable. The Department of Labor agrees: “The current situation warrants a significant change in approach in order to address the inadequacies of the systems.” Workers’ rights are under attack, and it’s vital that we protect them.

Summertime Frozen Yogurt Pie

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Looking for a summer dessert you don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in? Try this easy, low-fat frozen treat!

Ingredients: • 1 premade graham cracker pie crust • 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip • 1 cup frozen or fresh mixed berries (strawberries,

blueberries, and blackberries) • 3 (6-ounce) containers regular yogurt (berry flavors work best)

Directions: 1. Combine Cool Whip, mixed berries, and yogurt in a bowl. Mix with a spatula until well-blended. 2. Pour yogurt mixture into pie crust. 3. Cover pie with foil or plastic lid. 4. Store in freezer for at least 3 hours, or until frozen through. 5. Serve frozen or slightly thawed.

Recipe inspired by Mantitlement.com.

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