October 3, 2025 | SIBTF.org — The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has launched its third public comment period on proposed SIBTF regulatory changes that could affect the administration of the Subsequent Injuries Benefits Trust Fund (SIBTF). Beginning October 2, 2025, stakeholders—including employers, insurers, injured workers, and policy experts—are invited to review and submit feedback on the proposed revisions.
Why This Comment Period Matters
The SIBTF faces mounting financial pressures as liabilities continue to grow year after year. The DWC’s proposed SIBTF regulatory changes are designed to refine how claims are processed and how assessments are managed, with the goal of creating greater long-term stability.
For employers, these changes could directly impact future SIBTF employer assessments, while injured workers may see adjustments in how eligibility is determined and benefits are calculated.
Key Details of the DWC’s Announcement
Start Date: October 2, 2025
- Focus: Proposed revisions that may affect SIBTF claim procedures, assessment methodology, and administrative oversight
- Stakeholder Role: Employers, carriers, labor organizations, and claimants are encouraged to submit written feedback
How Employers and Stakeholders Can Participate
Employers and stakeholders can make their voices heard by submitting formal comments directly through the DWC’s official process. This is an opportunity to raise concerns about cost burdens, propose operational improvements, or advocate for fairer treatment of claimants.
Participating in the current round of SIBTF regulatory changes allows employers and industry groups to help shape policies that directly affect assessments, claims processing, and overall fund stability. By providing timely feedback, stakeholders can influence how the regulations are finalized and implemented.
Access the official DIR announcement and comment details here.
Preparing for Potential Changes
While the exact outcome of these SIBTF regulatory changes remains uncertain, one thing is clear: reforms are on the horizon. Employers should follow these steps:
- Monitor official DIR updates throughout the comment period
- Engage industry associations to align on unified feedback
- Review internal claims data to understand potential impacts
- Prepare budgets with possible assessment adjustments in mind
Conclusion
The DWC’s October 2025 public comment period marks a pivotal moment for the future of the SIBTF. By participating in the process, employers and stakeholders can help shape the direction of California’s workers’ compensation system.
This round of SIBTF regulatory changes carries added significance because it comes at a time when the fund faces record liabilities and mounting pressure for reform. Input gathered during the comment period will guide how claims are managed, how assessments are allocated, and whether new administrative safeguards are introduced. For employers, the outcome could directly affect future costs, while injured workers may see changes in eligibility standards and benefit distribution.
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Read More from SIBTF.org:
- Catastrophic Injury Cases Face New Hurdles Under AB 1329
- Regional Disparities: SIBTF Claim Patterns Differ Across California
- Employer Assessments Poised to Climb if SIBTF Costs Hold Steady
FAQs: About SIBTF Regulatory Changes
What is the purpose of the current SIBTF public comment period?
The DWC opened the period to gather stakeholder feedback on proposed SIBTF regulatory changes, including adjustments to claims handling and employer assessments.
Who can submit comments?
Employers, insurers, labor organizations, injured workers, and the general public are invited to participate in the public comment process.
How could these regulatory changes affect employers?
Depending on the final rules, employers may see adjustments in SIBTF employer assessments and in how claims are reviewed and funded.
Where can I find more information?
Full details on the comment process and deadlines are available on the DIR website.
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.