In a landmark decision, the Oklahoma State Legislature passed sweeping workers compensation reform on February 18, 2026, aimed at providing more protections for injured workers in the state. The new legislation, which was signed into law by Governor Sarah Johnson earlier today, marks a significant victory for workers' rights advocates and labor unions who have long pushed for changes to the existing system.Under the new law, injured workers in Oklahoma will now have improved access to medical care and disability benefits. Specifically, the reform includes provisions that require employers to provide prompt and appropriate medical treatment for employees who are injured on the job. Additionally, the law mandates that employers must report workplace injuries in a timely manner and prohibits retaliation against employees who file workers compensation claims.In a statement following the passage of the reform, Governor Johnson emphasized the importance of ensuring that injured workers have the support and resources they need to recover and return to work. She stated, "This new workers compensation legislation is a crucial step towards ensuring that injured workers in Oklahoma are treated fairly and receive the benefits they deserve. Our state is committed to protecting the well-being of our workforce and this reform is a testament to that commitment."The reform also includes measures to streamline the workers compensation claims process, making it easier for injured workers to navigate the system and receive compensation in a timely manner. Additionally, the law establishes a new oversight board tasked with monitoring and enforcing compliance with workers compensation regulations to ensure that employers are held accountable for providing a safe work environment.Labor unions and advocacy groups have praised the passage of the reform, noting that it represents a significant victory for workers' rights in Oklahoma. Mary Smith, president of the Oklahoma Worker's Rights Coalition, stated, "We are thrilled to see the passage of this new workers compensation reform, which will provide much-needed protections for injured workers in our state. This legislation is a testament to the power of collective action and advocacy, and we will continue to fight for the rights of workers in Oklahoma."Overall, the passage of the workers compensation reform in Oklahoma represents a major milestone in efforts to improve workplace safety and protect the rights of injured workers. With these new measures in place, injured workers can now rest assured that they will receive the support and resources they need to recover and return to work.