Companion bills H.3396 and S.16 would amend state law to stipulate that worker’s compensation laws in South Carolina do not apply to any employees for which there is jurisdiction under either the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act or the Merchant Marine Act. Workers who are covered under either of these laws tend to receive more generous injury compensation benefits than they would under state worker’s comp laws. The intent of this bill would seem to be to prevent employees from double dipping with state worker’s comp laws when they are already covered by more generous federal law.
By South Carolina Policy Council
Since 1986 the South Carolina Policy Council Education Foundation has advocated innovative policy ideas that advance the principles of limited government and free enterprise. The Policy Council is the state’s meeting place for business leaders, policymakers, and academics – as well as engaged citizens – who want to see South Carolina become the most free state in the nation. For questions or comments on the articles on this website, please email Research Director Jamie Murguia.