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In a win for New York workers, Governor Sarah Smith announced today that workers compensation benefits in the state will be increasing in 2026. The announcement comes after months of advocacy from labor groups and lawmakers, who have been pushing for improvements to the state's workers compensation system.Starting next year, workers who are injured on the job will see an increase in their weekly benefits payments. Currently, injured workers receive two-thirds of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $904.74. Under the new plan, workers will receive 70% of their average weekly wage, with the maximum benefit increasing to $1,000.In addition to the increase in weekly benefits, the new plan also includes improvements to the medical provider network for injured workers. Governor Smith stated that these changes are aimed at ensuring that workers have access to quality medical care and are able to return to work as quickly as possible.The announcement has been met with praise from labor groups, who have long argued that New York's workers compensation system is outdated and insufficient. "This increase in benefits is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that injured workers are able to support themselves and their families while they recover," said Mary Jones, president of the New York Workers Compensation Advocacy Group.However, some business groups have expressed concerns about the increase in benefits, arguing that it could drive up costs for employers. Governor Smith, however, assured that the state will work with businesses to mitigate any potential impacts.The new workers compensation benefits are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026. Governor Smith stated that the state will continue to monitor and evaluate the system to ensure that workers are adequately protected in the event of an injury on the job.