A: The division cannot waive statutory requirements. However, the division will consider the impact of COVID-19 in areas where the director has discretion to penalize or take action against an employer, worker, insurer, self-insured employer, service company, medical provider, or others.
All parties are encouraged to communicate with the division ahead of time if you cannot meet timelines, such as providing a timely response to inquiries. Where possible, the division will determine whether an extension or procedural waiver should be granted on a case-by-case basis, including whether COVID-19 is considered “good cause” or “reasons beyond a worker’s control,” where applicable. If there are specific areas of concern, please send them to workcomp.questions@oregon.gov and we will review them.