Strengthening Federal Workers’ Compensation Programs: Ensuring Integrity, Efficiency, and Access

The House Committee on Education & Workforce held a hearing on March 19, 2026, to examine the Department of Labor's Office of Workers Compensation Programs (OWCP) and discuss reforms to strengthen federal workers' compensation programs. Key procurement-related discussions included the potential modernization of the Federal Employees Compensation Act (FECA) and the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA), with emphasis on improving access to care, reducing administrative burdens, and increasing program efficiency. Witnesses highlighted the use of managed care organizations (MCOs) in states like Ohio to improve medical management and return-to-work outcomes, as well as the adoption of technology such as AI for claims processing. The bipartisan Health Care for Energy Workers Act (HR 4122) was discussed as a legislative effort to allow nurse practitioners and physician assistants to order care, thereby addressing provider shortages and reducing delays, especially in rural areas. The hearing also addressed concerns about contractor performance, administrative challenges, and the importance of maintaining worker choice in providers. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were announced, but the discussion underscored opportunities for future procurement related to managed care services, technology adoption, and program administration improvements.