TAKING MONEY FROM YOUR POCKET

Under Pennsylvania Law, an employer is entitled to a credit equal to 50% of any old age benefits against workers’ compensation benefits the employee receives.  If the employee was collecting old age benefits before the work injury occurred, the employer is not entitled to a credit.  This credit does not apply to social security disability benefits.

For example, if an employee receives $2,200.00 per month in workers’ compensation benefits and $1,100.00 per month in social security retirement benefits (old age benefits), the insurance company would be obligated to pay only $1,650.00 monthly. ($2,200-$1,100/2=$1,650.00)

In Caputo v. WCAB, an injured worker challenged this position, arguing that it was a violation of the Pennsylvania Constitution. The Court rejected the employee’s challenge. 

Bottom line:  Employers are entitled to reduce payments of workers’ compensation benefits by 50% of social security retirement benefits the injured worker receives.

KIDS WILL HAVE TO WATCH WHAT THEY SAY ON SCHOOL BUSES

Governor Tom Corbett recently signed legislation allowing audio recording devices to be used on school buses, and many districts are currently using these devices for disciplinary and security purposes. 

School officials explain that with the cramming of students in the small spaces of a bus, it is difficult if not impossible to investigate incidents, some of which are violent. 

The issue first arose in 2006 after state police discovered audio recording equipment on the school bus while they were investigating a complaint of overcrowding.  Eight years later, a law that exempts school buses from the state wiretapping laws. Though some have expressed concerns about privacy, the use of these devices has wide support.