The 6th Department of Labor has officially begun implementing Act 8859, a notable legislative change that redefines the Government Insurance Fund, transferring it from the Department of Finance to the DOL as the newly created Workers’ Compensation Trust Fund.

This transition, announced by Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy on Tuesday, went into effect following the passage of the law on August 9, 2024 and is intended to streamline the process of supporting workers who face injuries or illnesses as a result of their jobs. .

According to the statement, with this restructuring, the team that previously managed the Government Insurance Fund is now integrated into VIDOL’s Workers’ Compensation Administration division as an Underwriting Unit. This change is anticipated to improve efficiency and accuracy in the processing of workers’ compensation claims, with offices available in the parishes of St. Thomas and St. Croix.

The Workers’ Compensation Trust Fund will continue to provide financial and medical assistance to eligible workers while supporting employers in maintaining safe work environments.

Law 8859 introduces new payment deadlines and guidelines, beginning with an annual deadline for employers to submit payment for their workers’ compensation premiums. All payments must be made directly to VIDOL offices in St. Thomas or St. Croix, with the final annual payment deadline set for December 31, 2024. Employers who prefer to split their payments can do so semi-annually.

For injured workers awaiting compensation, the DOL has set October 31, 2024 as the expected date for issuing payments, providing timely financial support to those affected.

VIDOL encourages employers and workers with questions about the Workers’ Compensation Trust Fund to contact its offices in St. Croix at (340) 773-1994 or St. Thomas at (340) 776-3700. Additional resources, updates, and detailed information about Law 8859 can be accessed on the VIDOL website at www.vidol.gov or through their Facebook page at facebook.com/USVIDOL.