March 24, 2025 | Oakland, CA — MedLegalNews.com — The California Workers’ Compensation Institute (CWCI) has received state approval for its updated “Facts About Workers’ Compensation” new hire notice. Employers and claims organizations use this document to comply with statutory requirements under Labor Code §3551, providing new employees with essential information about workers’ compensation.
The revised CWCI notice not only reflects legislative changes but also incorporates clearer explanations of employee rights, filing procedures, and common claims scenarios. It includes practical guidance for both employers and employees, helping new hires understand how to report workplace injuries, access benefits, and communicate effectively with claims administrators. By streamlining the presentation of complex information, the updated notice aims to reduce confusion, improve compliance, and support safer, more informed workplaces across California.
Key Changes Following AB 1870
CWCI revised the notice after Gov. Newsom signed AB 1870 last year. This bill amended Labor Code §3550 to include information on an employee’s right to consult an attorney. As a result, the workers’ compensation posting notice (DWC 7 form) required updates. Consequently, CWCI’s new hire notice needed similar revisions to reflect these changes.
The updated notice also clarifies timelines for reporting injuries and outlines the steps employees should take if they have questions or concerns about the claims process. By providing concise, actionable instructions, CWCI aims to reduce misunderstandings that can delay claims or create compliance issues for employers.
Additionally, the revisions emphasize the importance of maintaining accurate records and highlight best practices for employee communication. This ensures that both new hires and employers are fully informed about rights, responsibilities, and legal protections under California workers’ compensation law, reinforcing workplace safety and compliance.
CWCI also included enhanced guidance for multilingual workplaces, offering clear translations and formatting to ensure accessibility for Spanish-speaking employees. This focus on inclusivity helps employers meet legal requirements while supporting a more informed and confident workforce. By addressing language barriers, the notice strengthens overall compliance and reduces potential disputes related to misunderstanding workers’ compensation rights.
Notice Requirements and Penalties
Employers and insurers are legally required to provide both posting notices and new hire notices to all employees, ensuring they are informed about their rights under California workers’ compensation law. Notices must be displayed in a prominent location in the workplace and given directly to new hires during onboarding.
Failure to comply with these requirements can carry significant consequences. Employers may face audit penalties from the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), which can include fines for each missing or outdated notice. Noncompliance may also lead to the loss of employer medical control, potentially affecting the management of workplace injury claims. In addition, civil penalties can reach thousands of dollars per violation, and failing to provide proper notice may toll the statute of limitations, giving employees extended time to file claims.
By adhering to these notice requirements, employers not only avoid financial and legal risks but also promote transparency, protect employee rights, and foster a safer, more informed workplace environment. Properly distributing the updated CWCI workers compensation notice demonstrates commitment to compliance and proactive claims management.
Failure to comply may results in:
- Audit penalties
- Loss of employer medical control
- Civil penalties amounting to thousands of dollars for each violation
- Tolling of the statute of limitations for filing claims
Providing these notices is more than a legal formality—it establishes clear communication between employers and employees about workplace rights and responsibilities. Timely and accurate distribution helps prevent disputes, supports efficient claims handling, and demonstrates the employer’s commitment to compliance and employee safety. With the updated CWCI workers compensation notice 2025, organizations can ensure that new hires fully understand their rights, the reporting process, and available resources, reducing confusion and potential liability.
State Approval and Distribution
After DWC approval last month, CWCI copyrighted the revised notice, translated it into Spanish, and prepared printed versions. The updated notice, available in both English and Spanish, is now available for purchase.
Ordering Information
Employers and claims organizations can purchase the updated Facts About Workers’ Compensation Notice in sets of 100 through the CWCI online store. CWCI members receive a 15% discount on orders of $1,000 or more.
For questions about ordering, contact CWCI at (510) 251-9470.
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FAQs: About CWCI Workers Compensation Notice
What is the CWCI workers compensation notice for 2025?
The CWCI workers compensation notice is an updated new hire document approved by the DWC, outlining employee rights and employer obligations under California Labor Code §3551.
Why did CWCI update the workers compensation notice for 2025?
CWCI updated the notice after AB 1870 amended Labor Code §3550, adding information about an employee’s right to consult an attorney in workers’ compensation matters.
How can employers order the CWCI workers compensation notice?
Employers can order printed English and Spanish versions of the CWCI workers compensation notice through the CWCI online store, with discounts available for members.
What are the penalties for not using the updated CWCI workers compensation notice?
Employers who fail to distribute the CWCI workers compensation notice may face audit penalties, loss of medical control, and civil fines for each violation.