VETO SPREE HITS WORKERS’ COMP BILL

Senator Patrick’s legislation would allow injured workers to bring representation when they are being examined by their employer’s doctor

AUGUSTA- Today, Governor LePage vetoed a bill sponsored by Democratic Senator John Patrick of Rumford to ensure fair treatment for workers who have been injured on the job through no fault of their own.

“This is about fairness for hard-working men and women who have been injured and may need support as they move through what can be a confusing process,” said Senator Patrick. “Injured workers deserve the opportunity to bring a family member, coworker, or union representative with them when they are being examined by a company doctor.”

For decades, the United Steel Workers Local 900 at the Rumford NewPage pulp and paper mill represented injured members who requested assistance at medical appointments and related Human Resources interviews. Last year, without giving a cause for changing the policy, the mill decided to stop this practice.

Senator Patrick’s bill would allow all injured workers to bring a representative of their choice to examinations.

With 163 vetoes, Governor LePage has exceeded the number of vetoes by any other Governor, including the previous record holder, one-term Governor Jim Longley who issued 118 vetoes.

The Senate will take up the veto of Senator Patrick’s measure, LD 1641, “An Act To Amend the Workers’ Compensation Laws as They Pertain to Employee Representation,” when the Legislature reconvenes on May 1. Two-thirds, or 24 votes, is needed to override the veto.

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