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On July 19, 2025, the South Dakota Workers Compensation Board made a significant announcement regarding changes to benefits for injured workers in the state. The Board revealed that starting August 1, 2025, injured workers who are eligible for workers compensation will see an increase in their benefits.The decision to increase benefits comes after a thorough review of the current system and a recognition of the rising cost of living in South Dakota. The Board acknowledged that injured workers often face financial challenges while recovering from work-related injuries, and the increase in benefits aims to provide them with additional support during their recovery period.Under the new guidelines, injured workers will see an average increase of 10% in their weekly benefits. This increase will apply to both temporary and permanent disability benefits, as well as wage loss benefits for workers who are unable to return to their pre-injury work.In addition to the increase in benefits, the Workers Compensation Board also announced changes to the medical fee schedule, which will ensure that injured workers have access to affordable and quality medical care as they recover. The Board stated that these changes were necessary to address the rising costs of healthcare and provide injured workers with the resources they need to fully recover and return to work.The announcement has been met with positive feedback from workers' rights advocates and labor unions in South Dakota, who have long been advocating for improved benefits for injured workers. They believe that the increase in benefits will make a significant difference in the lives of injured workers and their families, helping them to navigate the challenges of recovery without facing financial hardship.Overall, the decision to increase benefits for injured workers in South Dakota reflects the state's commitment to supporting its workforce and ensuring that workers are protected in the event of a work-related injury. The changes will go into effect on August 1, 2025, providing much-needed relief to injured workers across the state.