New Mexico Could Reduce Workers’ Comp Benefits if Workers High or Drunk

A New Mexico lawmaker has introduced a bill to reduce workers’ compensation in cases when an employee’s death or injury results from being drunk or high on the job.

Republican Rep. Dennis Roch of Logan said being under the influence on the job puts lives at risk and the legislation would help protect workers and hold violators accountable.

Currently, an employee is eligible to receive 90 percent of his or her workers’ compensation if alcohol or drugs contribute to injury or death on the job. Under the legislation introduced Tuesday, the benefits would decrease by 5 percent to 85 percent.

An Albuquerque Journal poll conducted in September found 67 percent of New Mexicans supported reducing workers’ compensation when drugs or alcohol result in injury or death.