Increasing workers’ compensation trends heavily impact prison operations
Psychological injury claims have more than doubled since 2019 and now account for one in four claims. These claims are costlier, slower to resolve and highlight weaknesses in early intervention and return to work support. The overall increase in claims volumes has directly undermined prison operations, contributing to severe staffing shortages, increased lockdowns, restricted prisoner services, and escalating overtime costs. This cycle not only weakens employee rehabilitation but also damages workforce morale and the Department of Justice’s reputation as an employer of choice.
The Department faces significant and systemic barriers to address workers’ compensation challenges
Despite a dedicated Workers’ Compensation Strategy that was launched in 2021 with $3.9 million in funding, the Department of Justice has struggled to implement its initiatives effectively. Support staff were not placed in prisons as planned, and new systems to manage claims have been delayed. Injury Management Consultants and Workers’ Compensation Officers continue to manage excessive caseloads far beyond industry benchmarks. This has resulted in reactive case management, poor communication, increasing delays, mistrust, and widespread perceptions of misuse and systemic dysfunction.