Skip main navigation

Outdated or Unsupported Browser Detected
DWD's website uses the latest technology. This makes our site faster and easier to use across all devices. Unfortunatley, your browser is out of date and is not supported. An update is not required, but it is strongly recommended to improve your browsing experience. To update Internet Explorer to Microsoft Edge visit their website.

  2. News Room
DWD logo

Tony Evers, Governor
Amy Pechacek, Secretary

Department of Workforce Development
Secretary's Office
201 E. Washington Avenue
P.O. Box 7946
Madison, WI 53707-7946
Telephone: (608) 266-3131
Fax: (608) 266-1784
Email: sec@dwd.wisconsin.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2025
CONTACT: DWD Communications
CommunicationsOffice@dwd.wisconsin.gov

Act 33 Returns Worker's Comp Adjudication to DWD

Staff representing DWD as Act 33 is signed
WC Bureau of Legal Services Director, Jim O'Malley, DWD Deputy Secretary Pam McGillivray, DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek and WC Deputy Administrator, Deena Dreise

Last Friday, Governor Evers signed 2025 Wisconsin Act 33, transferring all pending worker's compensation adjudication from the Department of Administration’s Division of Hearings and Appeals to DWD. By returning worker’s compensation adjudicatory functions to DWD, Gov. Evers reinforced the efficiencies that can be gained by handling all aspects of worker's compensation claims in house.

Worker's compensation adjudication was located within DWD until 2015, when it was moved to the Division of Hearings and Appeals as part of a broader state government reorganization. 2025 Wisconsin Act 33 reverses that decision, returning the process to the agency with decades of experience in worker's compensation policy, claims, and compliance.

The return of worker’s compensation adjudication to DWD aligns with Gov. Evers’ ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of Wisconsin’s workforce. For DWD staff, these updates represent both an opportunity and a responsibility – to uphold Wisconsin’s high standards of service, equity, and support for its stakeholders.

ABOUT DWD

Wisconsin's Department of Workforce Development efficiently delivers effective and inclusive services to meet Wisconsin's diverse workforce needs now and for the future. The department advocates for and invests in the protection and economic advancement of all Wisconsin workers, employers, and job seekers through six divisions – Employment and Training, Vocational Rehabilitation, Unemployment Insurance, Equal Rights, Worker's Compensation, and Administrative Services. To keep up with DWD announcements and information, sign up for news releases and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube.