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On December 10, 2025, North Carolina lawmakers passed new legislation aimed at enhancing protections for workers in the state's workers compensation system. The new laws, which are set to take effect immediately, are designed to provide greater support and benefits for injured workers, as well as improve the efficiency and fairness of the workers compensation process.One key change brought about by the new legislation is the establishment of a minimum wage benefit for workers who are unable to return to work due to a work-related injury. Under the new laws, injured workers will receive a minimum wage benefit that is set at 75% of their average weekly wage prior to the injury. This new benefit is intended to ensure that injured workers are able to maintain a basic standard of living while they recover from their injuries.In addition to the minimum wage benefit, the new laws also expand coverage for mental health injuries suffered on the job. Previously, workers compensation claims for mental health conditions were often denied or limited in scope. However, under the new legislation, workers who suffer from job-related mental health conditions, such as PTSD or anxiety, will now be eligible to receive the same benefits and support as workers who suffer from physical injuries.Furthermore, the new laws also include provisions aimed at streamlining the workers compensation process and reducing delays in benefits payments. According to officials, the legislation includes measures to incentivize employers and insurance companies to resolve claims more quickly and efficiently, in order to ensure that injured workers receive the support they need in a timely manner.Overall, the new laws represent a significant step forward in the protection of workers' rights in North Carolina. By providing enhanced benefits, expanding coverage for mental health injuries, and improving the efficiency of the workers compensation system, lawmakers are working to ensure that injured workers are treated fairly and receive the support they need to recover and return to work.