On February 20, 2026, Tennessee lawmakers announced new reforms to the state's workers compensation system, with the aim of providing better support for injured workers. The changes come after years of advocacy from labor groups and workers who have long felt that the system was outdated and inadequate.One of the key changes in the reforms is the implementation of a workers compensation ombudsman office, which will serve as a neutral third party to help injured workers navigate the complicated process of filing a claim and receiving benefits. This office will also provide resources and assistance to workers who feel their claims have been unfairly denied or delayed.Additionally, the reforms include updates to the system's medical fee schedule, which will help ensure that injured workers have access to quality medical care without excessive out-of-pocket costs. The changes also aim to streamline the claims process and reduce delays in receiving benefits.Tennessee Governor, Jane Smith, praised the reforms as a step in the right direction towards ensuring that injured workers are treated fairly and receive the support they need to recover and return to work. "Our workers are the backbone of our economy, and it is essential that we provide them with the resources and protections they deserve when they are injured on the job," Governor Smith said in a statement.Labor groups and workers' advocates have also welcomed the reforms, but some have expressed concerns that the changes do not go far enough to address the underlying issues in the state's workers compensation system. They have called for further reforms to increase benefit amounts, expand coverage for certain injuries, and improve enforcement mechanisms to hold employers accountable for providing a safe workplace.Overall, the Tennessee workers compensation reforms represent a positive step towards providing better support for injured workers in the state. As these changes are implemented, it will be important for policymakers to continue to listen to the needs and concerns of workers and ensure that the system is fair and effective for all.