September 19, 2025 | SIBTF.org — AB 1329 SIBTF reform introduces stricter eligibility criteria for the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) after the California Assembly passed Assembly Bill 1329 on September 12, 2025, focusing on the need for substantial evidence to prove the impact of pre-existing disabilities for injured workers seeking benefits.
The AB 1329 SIBTF reform is designed to strengthen the integrity of the fund by ensuring that only workers with verifiable, labor-limiting pre-existing disabilities receive additional compensation. By requiring substantial medical evidence and setting clear filing deadlines, the reform aims to reduce disputes over eligibility and provide a more predictable process for claimants and employers alike. Stakeholders note that these changes could help stabilize the fund’s finances while maintaining support for workers who face genuine, compounded workplace injuries.
Key Provisions of AB 1329
- Substantial Evidence Requirement: For injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2026, claimants under AB 1329 SIBTF reform must provide substantial medical evidence demonstrating that their prior permanent partial disability predated the subsequent compensable injury and resulted in loss of earnings, interfered with work activities, or impacted the ability to perform daily living activities.
- Application Deadline: Claimants must file for special additional compensation within five years from the date of the subsequent compensable injury or one year from the date the permanent disability level is determined by the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB), whichever is later, as required by AB 1329 SIBTF reform.
- Qualified Medical Evaluators Database: The AB 1329 SIBTF reform bill mandates the creation of a database by the Division of Workers’ Compensation to maintain a list of qualified medical evaluators for SIBTF claims.
- Trustee Change: The AB 1329 SIBTF reform bill proposes replacing the State Compensation Insurance Fund with the Director of Industrial Relations as the trustee responsible for paying additional compensation awarded by the WCAB.
Implications for Employers and Workers
AB 1329 aims to reduce the financial strain on the SIBTF by ensuring that only those with verifiable, labor-limiting pre-existing disabilities qualify for benefits. This reform is expected to lower assessments paid by employers into the SIBTF by 20-25%, while continuing to reduce the financial risk to employers who hire previously disabled workers. However, some stakeholders argue that the bill does not comprehensively address all the issues contributing to the fund’s financial challenges
Next Steps
AB 1329 SIBTF reform has been approved by the California Assembly and is now awaiting the governor’s signature. If enacted, the provisions will take effect for compensable subsequent injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2026.
For detailed information on AB 1329, visit the official bill text at LegiScan.
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Read More from SIBTF.org:
- AB 1329 Advances: SIBTF Reform Bill Moves to Senate Third Reading
- LAO Warns SIBTF Has Drifted: Stricter Eligibility and Review Reforms Proposed
- SIBTF Liabilities Soar Past $20 Billion: AB 1329 Seen as Partial Fix
FAQs: AB 1329 SIBTF Reform
What is AB 1329?
AB 1329 is a legislative bill passed by the California Assembly that aims to reform the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund by introducing stricter eligibility criteria for injured workers seeking benefits.
When will the provisions of AB 1329 take effect?
The provisions of AB 1329 will take effect for compensable subsequent injuries occurring on or after January 1, 2026.
What evidence is required under AB 1329 for SIBTF claims?
Claimants must provide substantial medical evidence demonstrating that their prior permanent partial disability predated the subsequent compensable injury and resulted in loss of earnings, interfered with work activities, or impacted the ability to perform daily living activities.
How will AB 1329 affect employers?
The implementation of AB 1329 is expected to lower assessments paid by employers into the SIBTF by 20-25%, reducing the financial risk associated with hiring previously disabled workers.
What is SIBTF?
The Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF) helps California workers who suffer a new workplace injury and already had a prior disability. It offers supplemental compensation when combined impairments severely limit earning capacity.