Injured workers in New Brunswick will receive more benefits while they are recovering if proposed legislation passes.
The changes, introduced this week, would see wage loss benefits increase from 85 per cent to 90 per cent of regular earnings.
Officials said the proposed legislation would also increase the maximum annual earnings of injured workers.
The figure would increase from $76,500 to $82,100, allowing more injured workers to have their full wages covered.
“This historic increase will see rates reach levels not seen since 1992, and we know that this will mean more money in the pockets of New Brunswickers as we work to help them with the rising cost of living,” Labour Minister Greg Turner said in a news release.
The amendments reflect recommendations stemming from a review by WorkSafeNB and its consultations with workers and employers.
Turner said the increases were made possible thanks to the strong funding position of WorkSafeNB, which recently lowered the rates it charges the province’s employers.
Mel Norton, WorksafeNB’s board chairperson, said the increased benefits combined with the lower rates strike a balanced approach that benefits both employers and injured workers.
“We have carefully balanced the needs of our stakeholders with the sustainability of our system, with stable assessment rates for employers, while providing the benefits our injured workers and their families deserve,” said Norton.
If passed in the legislature, the changes would take effect July 1.
