(Providence, RI – April 9, 2007) Today, in the first effort of its kind, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) is unveiling a statewide campaign to educate Rhode Island employees and employers about their rights and responsibilities with regard to Workers’ Compensation insurance. Dubbed the “Rhody Red” campaign in honor of its illustrated mascot, the multimedia effort
includes radio, newspaper, outdoor, poster, and brochure elements with messages in both Spanish and English.

“We want to remind all Rhode Island employers about their responsibility to provide Workers’ Compensation insurance and to make sure that every employee knows that this coverage is more than a benefit; it is a right,” says Adelita S. Orefice, Director of the Department.

The campaign employs a lighter approach - with its Rhode Island Red rooster mascot clucking “Workers Comp, Comp, Comp” in radio spots - to deliver its more serious message: Workers’ Compensation - It’s the Law.

The DLT Division of Workers’ Compensation already provides all new employers with information regarding their Workers’ Compensation insurance requirements in coordination with the Rhode Island Division of Taxation. The Division’s Fraud and Compliance Unit also investigates Workers’ Compensation insurance policies reported as cancelled as well as tips of suspected violations.

In 2006, the Fraud and Compliance Unit checked close to 5,000 businesses for Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage. As a result, 342 employers who were determined to be operating without required insurance were penalized, and the Unit collected nearly $400,000 in penalties from previously uninsured employers. “If employers, employees, medical providers or the general public have any doubt about a business’ Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage, we encourage them call to us at 462-COMP (2667) and guarantee them that their call is confidential,” says Orefice. “Working together we hope to ensure that every employer follows
the law and every worker in Rhode Island is protected.”

Anyone with questions about whether a business is covered by workers’ compensation insurance can reach the DLT at:
Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Division of Workers’ Compensation
Fraud and Compliance Unit
462-COMP (2667) • 462-8006 TTY
www.dlt.ri.gov/comp • WCFraud@DLT.ri.gov

Editor’s note:
Electronic versions of the “Rhody Red” campaign elements are available and may be reproduced by the media upon arrangement with Angie Moncada. Interviews with DLT spokespersons are available in both Spanish and English by request.
The 2005 Annual Report to Governor's Workers' Compensation Advisory Council is available at www.dlt.ri.gov/wc/pdfs/AR05.pdf and includes information on injuries, filing activity, and the Workers' Compensation Administrative Fund.

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training offers a wide array of employment and training services to both the general public and to individuals with unusual barriers to employment. DLT is ready to assist any job seeker, whether the goal is a first job, a better job, or a career change. Rhode Island's workforce is protected through the enforcement of labor laws, prevailing wage rates, and workplace health and safety standards. Temporary income support is available to unemployed, sick, or injured workers and a comprehensive rehabilitation program is available to those injured on the job.

DLT is dedicated to the growth and competitiveness of Rhode Island industry, administering a variety of training grants, tax credits, and apprenticeship programs to help employers. Economic indicators and labor market information are available for long-range planning. The Agency engages in active outreach, helping large and small employers retain their best workers or retrain their existing work force. At no cost to the employer, DLT will also screen job applicants, post job vacancies, and help businesses institute cost-sharing programs that can avert layoffs.

For more information on the innovative programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders at the Department of Labor and Training, please call (401) 462-8000 or visit the web site at
www.dlt.ri.gov

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
TDD (401) 462-8006