Which statement best describes the purpose of liberal construction of workers' compensation statutes?

Which statement best describes the purpose of liberal construction of workers' compensation statutes?

• A. Strictly follow the statutes
• B. Interpret the statutes broadly to support injured workers
• C. Interpret to favor employers
• D. Ignore case law.

Answer: (B)

Liberal construction means interpreting workers' compensation statutes with a remedial tilt toward the employee. The system is meant to provide quick, certain benefits for work-related injuries, so when language is ambiguous, the interpretation should expand coverage rather than restrict it. That’s why interpreting the statutes broadly to support injured workers is the best description. A strict reading would undermine benefits, and interpreting to favor employers goes against the remedial purpose of these laws.

Liberal construction means interpreting workers' compensation statutes with a remedial tilt toward the employee. The system is meant to provide quick, certain benefits for work-related injuries, so when language is ambiguous, the interpretation should expand coverage rather than restrict it. That’s why interpreting the statutes broadly to support injured workers is the best description. A strict reading would undermine benefits, and interpreting to favor employers goes against the remedial purpose of these laws.