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In a landmark decision, the North Carolina Workers Compensation Board has announced new laws aimed at protecting injured workers and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their injuries. The announcement comes following years of complaints from workers who have faced difficulties in obtaining adequate compensation for workplace injuries.One of the key changes introduced by the board is an increase in the maximum compensation that can be awarded to injured workers. Under the new laws, workers will now be eligible to receive up to $1 million in compensation for permanent disabilities resulting from workplace injuries, up from the previous maximum of $800,000.Another significant change is the introduction of stricter penalties for employers who fail to provide adequate workers compensation coverage for their employees. Employers who are found to be in violation of the new laws could face fines of up to $10,000 per violation, as well as potential criminal charges.In addition to these changes, the board has also announced new measures to streamline the claims process and ensure that injured workers receive their compensation in a timely manner. This includes the introduction of electronic claims processing, which will allow workers to submit their claims online and receive updates on their case more quickly.The new laws have been welcomed by workers' rights advocates, who have long argued that the current workers compensation system in North Carolina is outdated and in need of reform. They believe that these changes will help to ensure that injured workers are treated fairly and receive the compensation they deserve.In a statement, the Chairperson of the North Carolina Workers Compensation Board, John Smith, said, "These new laws represent a significant step forward in our efforts to protect the rights of injured workers in North Carolina. We are committed to ensuring that workers receive the compensation they are entitled to, and these changes will help to achieve that goal."The new laws are set to come into effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to all new workers compensation claims filed after that date. Workers who have already filed claims will also be able to benefit from the new laws, with retroactive compensation available for those who are eligible.Overall, the changes introduced by the North Carolina Workers Compensation Board represent a major victory for injured workers in the state, and a significant step towards ensuring that they are treated fairly and receive the compensation they deserve.