NOT ALL SUNSETS ARE PRETTY

Starting July 1, 2012, the amount of money available for retraining costs will increase from $15,713.49 to $17,599.11.  This applies to any plan approved on or after July 1, 2012.  This increase is the result of an annual adjustment due to rising tuition costs.  The injured worker still has up to two years for retraining.

Prior to 2008, injured workers had up to one year and $4,000 for retraining purposes. Fortunately, the Legislature passed laws increasing this amount to two years and originally $12,000 for retraining purposes, along with yearly adjustments to reflect rising tuition rates. Unfortunately, these laws have a "sunset provision" and will end June 30, 2013, unless legislation extends the "sunset" date or makes them permanent.  Otherwise, it is back to one year and $4,000.

Dane D. Ostrander, Attorney at Law

Williams, Wyckoff & Ostrander, PLLC