Maine House OKs Workers Compensation Overhaul

A workers compensation overhaul bill that Republicans say brings Maine’s law into line with other states has won initial House passage.

Representatives voted 75-71 on Thursday along party lines, with majority Republicans saying the bill makes reforms in a program that’s too generous and subject to abuse.

Democrats say the bill is a bad deal for workers. They say it caps benefits for almost all injured workers at 10 years, even if their injury still prevents them from returning to work. It also makes it harder for injured workers to qualify for benefits.

The bill faces further votes.