Update from the North Carolina Industrial Commission
26th Annual N.C. Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference Going Virtual
The 26th annual North Carolina Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference will now be held virtually October 5 – 8, Tuesday through Friday, from 9 AM to approximately 2 PM each day. The Industrial Commission had hoped to do an in-person conference; however, they are unable to do so due to increasing infections. Attendees can participate in the live stream event with live question-and-answer sessions but will also have access to on-demand recordings for an additional five days upon completion of the conference.
Continuation of Current Deputy Commissioner Hearing Procedures
In-person Deputy Commissioner hearings that were scheduled to begin October 1, 2021 have now been delayed and Deputy Commissioners will continue to conduct hearings via WebEx videoconferencing unless the Deputy Commissioner grants an in-person hearing upon showing of good cause.
Wanda Blanche Taylor and Adrian Phillips Confirmed by General Assembly to Serve as Commissioners
Wanda Blanche Taylor and Adrian Phillips were both confirmed by the General Assembly to serve on the Full Commission. Commissioner Taylor replaces Charlton Allen and Commissioner Phillips replaces Christopher Loutit. Commissioner Phillips’ term is through April 30, 2027. Commissioner Taylor’s term is through June 30, 2026.
Deputy Commissioner Appointments
Jessica Holmes and Samuel Scudder have been appointed to serve as Deputy Commissioners. Attorney Scudder will be handling the noninsured docket.
Deputy Commissioners Robert Harris, Lori Gaines and Jesse “Jay” Tillman were reappointed for additional six-year terms.
Mike MacKay was hired as the Director of Claims Administration.
Bruce Hamilton is a Partner in Teague Campbell’s Raleigh office. He is the legal advisor for the NCASI and, for the past 30 years, his practice has focused exclusively on workers’ compensation defense.