The West Virginia Supreme Court has ruled that inmates participating in work-release programs do not qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
The Charleston Gazette-Mail reports the court unanimously affirmed a Workers’ Compensation Board of Review’s 2015 decision to not grant William F. Crawford workers’ compensation on Thursday. Crawford’s hand was severely injured in a wood chipper in 2013 while he was working on a road crew for the state Division of Highways.
Crawford had appealed the board’s decision, saying state law didn’t clarify coverage exclusion for work-release inmates. He also said his equal protection rights had been violated, arguing that inmates working for private businesses would receive the benefits.
The court ruled that the decision wasn’t a violation of equal protection, as Crawford was working on a volunteer basis.
Topics Workers' Compensation Virginia
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Berkshire CEO Abel Says Insurance Becoming Increasingly Competitive 
In Florida Court, Sackler Family Member Admits Felony Tied to Her Opioid Addiction 
Florida Governor Signs Bill Dropping Building Permits for Work Valued at $7,500 or Less 
Travelers: Aging Workforce, New Employees Drive Complexity in Injury Claims 
