Workers' Comp Collections Bill Initiated by Rich Marcolus Becomes Law

We’re pleased to report that a workers’ compensation measure initiated by Levinson Axelrod, P.A. Partner Richard Marcolus has been signed into law!

The New Jersey Collection Practices Bill (S-3036 / A-1697) was signed by Governor Phil Murphy on Tuesday January 21, 2020. It will provide critical protection for workers’ comp claimants by prohibiting health care providers from reporting certain workers’ compensation medical charges and past due medical bills to collection and credit agencies.

The Collection Practices Bill is a significant improvement to the state’s workers’ comp system, and one which protects injured workers and their families from facing additional financial strains if they have a pending workers’ compensation case – a time when they are most likely to experience hardships created by limited income, mounting expenses, and uncertainty about their futures.

Partner Rich Marcolus played an active role in advocating for the Collection Practices Bill. In fact, the measure was initiated by Marcolus in response to his client’s credit rating being negatively impacted after a medical provider sent its bill to a collection agency, even though the bill was not the client’s responsibility. When the Judge refused to address the problem, Marcolus went to the Legislature to change the law.

His efforts, and the efforts of the many other advocates and lawmakers who expressed their support, have made a difference. As Rich notes:

“Please join me in giving an enthusiastic thank you to Governor Murphy for putting his signature on these important bills and taking a stand for justice. And thank you to everyone who worked so hard for so long to advance these important pieces of legislation.”

Richard J. Marcolus: An Advocate for Injured Workers

Richard J. Marcolus is a New Jersey Supreme Court Certified Workers’ Compensation Attorney and Partner at Levinson Axelrod, P.A. A former Union Carpenter and current Union Member, Rich knows the risks workers face when on the job – and the struggles they endure following workplace accidents.

In addition to guiding numerous clients and families through the workers’ compensation process, Rich has been unwavering in his determination to expand workers’ rights and rally support for needed improvements to New Jersey’s workers’ comp system. His work outside of the courtroom includes helping draft the Voluntary Tender Bill (signed into law in 2018), and testifying before the state Senate and Labor Committees in support of workers’ rights measures such as the Hand & Foot Bill – which was also signed by Gov. Murphy.

If you have questions about new legislation and how it may impact your workers’ compensation claim, contact our firm to speak with an attorney.