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In a move to better protect workers in Rhode Island, new legislation has been introduced to expand workers compensation benefits for those injured on the job. The proposal, which was announced on April 12, 2026, aims to provide greater financial support and resources for individuals who are unable to work due to a work-related injury.Under the proposed legislation, workers would be entitled to receive a higher percentage of their wages while on temporary disability leave. Currently, workers in Rhode Island are only able to receive 75% of their average weekly wage if they are unable to work due to a work-related injury. The new legislation would increase this to 85%, providing workers with much-needed financial relief during their recovery period.Additionally, the proposed legislation would extend the timeframe in which workers can receive benefits for permanent disability. Currently, workers in Rhode Island are only eligible to receive permanent disability benefits for a maximum of 312 weeks. The new legislation would extend this period to 416 weeks, giving workers more time to recover and adjust to their new circumstances.In a statement, Governor Rebecca Adams expressed her support for the proposed legislation, stating that it is crucial to provide workers with adequate support and resources in their time of need. "Workers who are injured on the job should not have to worry about how they will make ends meet while they recover," Governor Adams said. "By expanding workers compensation benefits, we are ensuring that workers in Rhode Island have the financial stability they need to focus on their recovery and return to work."The proposed legislation is expected to be debated in the Rhode Island State Legislature in the coming weeks, with lawmakers hopeful that it will be passed into law by the end of the year. If successful, the new legislation would make Rhode Island one of the most worker-friendly states in the country in terms of workers compensation benefits.