Ombudsman for Oregon Workers
Address: 350 Winter St. NE, Salem 97301-3878; PO Box 14480, Salem 97309-0405
Phone: 503-378-3351; Toll-free: 1-800-927-1271
Fax: 503-373-7639
Contact: Jennifer Flood, Ombudsman
Statutory Authority: ORS
656.709
Duties and Responsibilities: The Legislature created this office in 1987 to serve as an independent advocate for injured workers, and it was expanded as part of the major reforms to the workers’ compensation system in 1990. The office investigates and attempts to resolve workers’ compensation-related complaints, provides information to injured workers to enable them to protect their rights and makes recommendations for improving ombudsman services and the workers’ compensation system.
Small Business Ombudsman for Workers’ Compensation
Address: 350 Winter St. NE, Salem 97301-3878; PO Box 14480, Salem 97309-0405
Phone: 503-378-4209
Fax: 503-373-7639
Contact: David Waki, Ombudsman
Statutory Authority: ORS
656.709
Duties and Responsibilities: This office was created as part of the 1990 workers’ compensation reforms to educate and advocate small businesses. The ombudsman serves as a workers’ compensation resource center, assisting small businesses in the areas of insurance and claims processing. This includes the intervention, investigation and resolution of any workers’ compensation-related issue. The office also provides education and information to employers, trade groups, agents and insurers on relevant workers’ compensation issues.
Workers’ Compensation Management - Labor Advisory Committee
Address: 350 Winter St. NE, Salem 97301-3878; PO Box 14480, Salem 97309-0405
Phone: 503-947-7866
Fax: 503-378-6444
Contact: Theresa Van Winkle, Administrator
Statutory Authority: ORS
656.790
Duties and Responsibilities: The Legislature created the committee as part of the reform of the workers’ compensation system in 1990. It provides an effective forum for business and labor to meet, explore and resolve issues involving the workers’ compensation system. The committee is charged with reviewing and making recommendations on workers’ compensation issues to the DCBS director and the Legislature. Members are appointed by the governor and subject to Senate confirmation. The committee consists of five management and five labor representatives and the DCBS director, who serves as an ex officio member.