December 22, 2025 | SIBTF.org – The California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC) has unanimously elected Nicholas Roxborough as its 2026 Chair. The decision, announced at the December 11 public meeting in Los Angeles and online, continues the Commission’s tradition of alternating leadership between employer and labor representatives for one-year terms.
The new leadership comes at a pivotal time for California’s workers’ compensation and workplace safety landscape. Nicholas Roxborough is expected to guide the Commission in addressing emerging challenges, including trends in workplace injury prevention, safety compliance in high-risk industries, and the ongoing evaluation of claims efficiency. Stakeholders from labor organizations, employer associations, and regulatory agencies will be watching closely as the 2026 Chair sets priorities for data-driven safety initiatives and collaborative policy solutions across the state.
Experienced Leadership for California Workers’ Safety
Nicholas Roxborough is managing partner at Roxborough, Pomerance, Nye & Adreani, LLP, representing insured and self-insured employers on complex workers’ compensation and regulatory matters nationwide. With a Juris Doctorate from Southwestern School of Law and a Bachelor’s from UC Berkeley, Roxborough also studied at the Institute of European Studies in Vienna, Austria. He serves on several boards, including as Chairman of Friends of the Los Angeles Coliseum and on the LAX Board of Airport Commissioners.
Nicholas Roxborough’s extensive legal and regulatory experience positions him to address the complex challenges facing California’s workers’ compensation system. Over the years, he has guided employers through evolving safety standards, compliance requirements, and high-stakes litigation, while also advising on strategic risk management and claims oversight. Beyond his professional practice, Roxborough has contributed to community and industry initiatives, promoting workplace safety, infrastructure development, and public accountability. His combination of national experience, academic training, and board-level leadership equips him to foster innovative policies and collaborative solutions that benefit both employers and workers throughout California.
As CHSWC Chair, Roxborough is expected to leverage his legal and regulatory background to advance initiatives that improve workplace safety and workers’ compensation processes statewide. He plans to focus on enhancing data-driven oversight, fostering stronger collaboration between employers and labor representatives, and identifying best practices from other states to inform California’s policies. By emphasizing transparency, efficiency, and prevention, Roxborough aims to strengthen the Commission’s impact on reducing workplace injuries while ensuring that injured workers receive timely and fair support.
CHSWC’s Role in California
Established by the 1993 workers’ compensation reform legislation, CHSWC plays a critical role in evaluating and improving California’s health and safety systems. The Commission monitors workplace safety trends, analyzes claims and compensation data, and studies comparable programs in other states to identify effective practices. Its recommendations help shape administrative policies and legislative reforms designed to prevent industrial injuries, reduce occupational illnesses, and improve outcomes for injured workers.
“I am honored to serve as Chair and continue CHSWC’s mission of strengthening workplace safety and workers’ compensation oversight across California,” said Nicholas Roxborough.
For more information on CHSWC and its activities, visit the official CHSWC website.
Subscribe to SIBTF.org for timely updates on workers’ compensation and safety news.
Read More from SIBTF.org:
- Governor Pushes for Major SIBTF Reform After Veto
- Court of Appeal Confirms SIBTF Must Meet Burden of Proof for Benefit Reductions
- SIBTF Reform Outlook: Gov. Newsom’s 2026 Plan After 2025 Delays
FAQs: About CHSWC and 2026 Leadership
Who is Nicholas Roxborough?
Nicholas Roxborough is a managing partner specializing in workers’ compensation law and regulatory matters nationwide.
What is the role of CHSWC?
CHSWC examines California’s health and safety systems and workers’ compensation programs, recommending improvements for safer workplaces.
How long is the CHSWC Chair’s term?
The Chair serves a one-year term, with leadership alternating between employer and labor representatives.
Where can I learn more about CHSWC initiatives?
Visit the CHSWC official website for detailed information on programs and reports.