On February 21, 2026, the New Mexico Workers Compensation Board announced a series of new policies aimed at improving benefits for injured workers across the state. These changes come as a response to increasing concerns about the adequacy of compensation for workers who suffer injuries on the job.One of the most significant policy changes is the implementation of a new formula for determining compensation rates for injured workers. The new formula takes into account a variety of factors, including the severity of the injury, the worker's age and earning capacity, and the cost of living in their area. This new approach is expected to result in more fair and consistent compensation rates for injured workers.In addition to the new compensation formula, the Workers Compensation Board has also introduced a number of other changes designed to improve benefits for injured workers. These changes include an expansion of benefits for workers who suffer permanent disabilities, increased coverage for medical expenses related to on-the-job injuries, and improved access to vocational rehabilitation services for injured workers who are unable to return to their previous job.These policy changes have been welcomed by both workers and labor advocates in New Mexico, who have long been pushing for improvements to the state's workers compensation system. They believe that these changes will help ensure that injured workers receive the support and resources they need to recover and return to work.In a statement announcing the new policies, Workers Compensation Board chairperson Maria Sanchez said, "We are committed to ensuring that injured workers in New Mexico receive the benefits and resources they need to recover and move forward. These new policies represent a significant step forward in our efforts to improve the workers compensation system and provide better support for injured workers across the state."Overall, these new policies represent a positive development for injured workers in New Mexico, who can now expect to receive more comprehensive and equitable benefits when they suffer injuries on the job. The changes are a significant step towards creating a more fair and effective workers compensation system in the state.