July 22, 2024 - SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In response to rising concerns over the prevalence of silicosis among California workers, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has issued a letter to the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) requesting a detailed study and data collection on silicosis claims. This move aims to better understand the impact of this serious occupational disease and ensure that affected workers receive the benefits they are entitled to.

Silicosis is a progressive and incurable lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, often during the cutting and finishing of engineered stone countertops, a consumer preference more prevalent in recent years. Reports indicate that this occupational hazard has been increasingly affecting workers, particularly young Latino men, since 2015.

Commissioner Lara's letter highlights the urgency of addressing this issue and outlines specific data points that the WCIRB is requested to provide. The requested data includes:

• The number of silicosis cases filed in the past 10 years
• The average age of the claimants
• The percentage of claim acceptances and denials
• The average medical, temporary disability, and permanent disability costs associated with these claims
• The average allocated loss adjustment expenses on these claims
• The average number of insurers associated with each claim

"We need to gather comprehensive data on silicosis claims to make informed decisions and protect California workers effectively,” said Commissioner Lara in his letter. “This disease has a devastating impact on individuals and their families, and it is our duty to ensure they are supported."

The California Department of Insurance remains committed to safeguarding consumers and will continue to work with the WCIRB and other stakeholders to address this critical issue.

Note:

• Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara Silicosis Letter to WCIRB
  Source: CA. Dept. of Ins.