On Friday, January 6th, the Vermont Department of Labor announced several changes of note. First, the annual mileage reimbursement rate increase, which took effect on 1/1/23. The new rate is $0.655/mile, an increase of $.03/mile and the highest in Vermont’s history, though a smaller increase than last year. The historical rates and meal reimbursement information can be found on the DOL’s website at: Mileage and Meal Reimbursement - 1-6-2023 | Department of Labor (vermont.gov)
Next, the
Department of Labor announced new versions of two forms commonly used in
Workers’ Compensation cases. The first in the Form 32, used for agreements for
temporary compensation. Notably, the following language has been added to the
bottom of the new Form 32: “By signing this agreement the employee is stating
that he or she is not working, and that he or she is obligated to report
promptly any work, earnings, wages or benefits to the insurance
carrier/employer and the department.”
The other
form updated by the Department of Labor is the Form P1, a form often used (but
not required) when an employee is requesting pre-authorization of medical
treatment. The new form requires for the first time that the employee attach
verification of how the Form P1 was transmitted to the insurer. Further, in the
event that the insurer exercises its rights under Vermont Workers' Compensation
Rule 7 and obtains a medical records review, it must now specify the doctor who
will conduct the records review on the
updated Form P1.