On February 19, 2026, the New York Workers Compensation Board made a significant announcement regarding changes to benefit payments and claims processing for injured workers in the state. The changes are aimed at streamlining the process and ensuring that workers receive their rightful compensation in a timely manner.One of the key changes announced by the board is an increase in weekly benefit payments for injured workers. Starting immediately, workers who are unable to perform their job duties due to a work-related injury will receive a higher percentage of their average weekly wage as part of their benefit payments. This increase is intended to provide injured workers with more financial support while they recover from their injuries.The board has also implemented changes to the claims processing system to expedite the approval of benefits for eligible workers. Claims will now be processed more efficiently, with a focus on reducing backlogs and ensuring that injured workers receive their benefits as soon as possible. Additionally, the board has allocated additional resources to handle claims and provide support to workers throughout the process.In a statement regarding the changes, New York Workers Compensation Board Chairperson emphasized the importance of ensuring that injured workers receive the support they need. "Our goal is to make the workers compensation system in New York more efficient and responsive to the needs of injured workers," said the Chairperson. "These changes will help ensure that workers receive the benefits they are entitled to without unnecessary delays."The announcement has been met with positive reactions from workers' rights advocates and labor unions, who have long been calling for improvements to the workers compensation system in New York. The changes are seen as a step in the right direction towards ensuring that injured workers are adequately supported during their recovery process.Overall, the changes announced by the New York Workers Compensation Board represent a significant improvement in the state's workers compensation system. By increasing benefit payments and streamlining claims processing, the board aims to provide better support to injured workers and ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve.