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On May 18, 2026, the Kansas Workers Compensation Board announced significant changes to the benefits available to injured workers in the state. These changes are aimed at providing more support and financial assistance to workers who suffer injuries on the job.One of the key changes approved by the board is an increase in the maximum weekly benefit amount that injured workers can receive. Previously set at $500, the new maximum weekly benefit amount has been raised to $750, giving injured workers access to more financial assistance while they recover from their injuries.In addition to the increase in the maximum weekly benefit amount, the board also approved changes to the duration of benefits available to injured workers. Previously, injured workers were limited to receiving benefits for a maximum of 104 weeks. However, under the new changes, injured workers can now receive benefits for up to 156 weeks, providing them with additional support during their recovery period.Furthermore, the board also approved changes to the calculation of benefits for injured workers who are unable to return to their pre-injury job due to their injuries. In such cases, injured workers will now be eligible to receive benefits based on their earning capacity, rather than their previous wages, ensuring that they are adequately compensated for their loss of income.These changes mark a significant step towards improving the support and protection available to injured workers in Kansas. By increasing the maximum weekly benefit amount, extending the duration of benefits, and revising the calculation of benefits for workers unable to return to their previous job, the Workers Compensation Board has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that injured workers have access to the assistance they need to recover and return to work.Overall, these changes have been welcomed by workers' rights advocates and labor groups, who have praised the board for taking action to improve the workers' compensation system in Kansas. The new benefits will come into effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to all injured workers who file new claims on or after that date.