On June 5, 2026, Pennsylvania Governor John Smith announced new legislation aimed at streamlining the workers compensation claims process in the state. The bill, dubbed the Workers Compensation Efficiency Act, is designed to provide faster and more efficient resolution of workplace injury claims for Pennsylvania workers.Under the new legislation, employers will be required to report workplace injuries to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor within 24 hours of occurrence. This will help ensure that injured workers receive prompt medical attention and appropriate compensation for their injuries.Additionally, the Workers Compensation Efficiency Act establishes a new online portal for filing workers compensation claims. This portal will allow injured workers to submit their claims electronically, cutting down on paperwork and reducing processing times.Governor Smith emphasized the importance of the new legislation in ensuring that injured workers are treated fairly and receive the compensation they deserve. "Workers who are injured on the job should not have to wait months or even years to receive the benefits they are entitled to," he stated in a press conference announcing the bill. "The Workers Compensation Efficiency Act will help to expedite the claims process and provide injured workers with the support they need to recover and return to work."The new legislation has received widespread support from labor unions, workers' rights advocates, and the business community. State Senator Jane Brown, a co-sponsor of the bill, praised the bipartisan effort that went into crafting the legislation. "This bill represents a significant step forward in ensuring that Pennsylvania workers have access to timely and fair compensation for workplace injuries," she said.The Workers Compensation Efficiency Act is expected to take effect on January 1, 2027. Governor Smith has urged employers and workers to familiarize themselves with the new requirements and procedures outlined in the bill to ensure a smooth transition to the streamlined claims process.