The 2026 legislative session introduced several updates to Colorado’s workers’ compensation system focused on modernization, compliance, workplace protections, and administrative processes. While these changes vary in scope, counties should understand how new requirements may affect claims management, safety practices, and overall workers’ compensation operations.
SB26-093 focuses on ensuring compliance with workers’ compensation insurance coverage requirements. The legislation strengthens oversight of employer responsibilities and supports efforts to confirm appropriate coverage is maintained. Maintaining proper workers’ compensation coverage is essential to protect employees and reduce potential liability exposure. Counties should continue reviewing employee classifications, documentation, and contract requirements, including verifying workers’ compensation coverage limits of approximately $1 million as a best practice.
SB26-175 addresses adjustments to an employer’s experience modification factor, which is used in determining workers’ compensation premium calculations. The bill updates how certain information may impact an employer’s experience modification factor. Counties should understand how claims experience and program changes may affect future workers’ compensation costs.
SB26-186 updates the Workers’ Compensation Act of Colorado to reflect current technology needs and practices. These updates help modernize processes and improve efficiency within the workers’ compensation system.
Key areas include:
HB26-1272 establishes worker protections related to changing climate conditions and workplace risks. As weather events and environmental conditions evolve, employers should evaluate potential impacts on employee safety, particularly for employees working outdoors or in changing environments.
Considerations may include:
HB26-1017 prohibits an insurer from receiving restitution through the criminal restitution process. While this change primarily affects insurance recovery processes, counties should understand that claim-related financial recovery options may be impacted when criminal proceedings are involved.
HB26-1405 authorizes transfers from certain cash funds to the state General Fund. Although not specific to individual workers’ compensation claims, changes involving state funds may impact program administration and future funding structures.
The 2026 legislative updates reinforce the importance of maintaining strong workers’ compensation practices, accurate documentation, and proactive safety programs. Counties should review internal policies, employee communications, and claims management procedures to ensure alignment with updated requirements. Continued focus on workplace safety, timely reporting, and compliance helps protect employees, manage claim costs, and reduce risk. CWCP will continue monitoring regulatory updates and, if a member of CWCP, know that CWCP will remain compliant with legislative changes. For questions or support related to workers’ compensation changes, please contact CTSI at 303.861.0507.
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