Happy Wednesday! This week we are discussing the new start to tax filing season, how COVID's effect on workers' comp claims has varied by state and the newest update to Wisconsin's mask mandate. 

IRS Delays Start of Tax Filing Season to Feb. 12

Typically, tax filing season starts in late January for those who want to get a head start on their taxes and receive their refunds a little earlier. This year, the tax filing season doesn't start until February 12th. Because of the COVID Relief Act that took effect in late December, the IRS will need more time to prepare for tax season. However, the filing deadline is still April 15th. 

How COVID Effect on Workers' Compensation Claims Has Varied by State, Industry

According to new research and Insurance Journal, "The percentage of COVID-19 claims among all workers compensation paid claims has varied greatly among states and occupations, as has the decrease in non-COVID claims.

The Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) has found that there has been a substantial concentration of COVID-19 claims among workers employed in service industries (85 percent in 2020 second quarter), particularly in assisted living facilities, hospitals, and the offices of physicians and dentists."

Read more about the study here. 

Gov. Evers Officially Extends Wisconsin Mask Mandate to March 20

On Tuesday January 19th, Gov. Tony Evers extended the statewide mask mandate requiring face coverings through March 20th. Alongside the extended mask mandate, he proclaimed a new public health emergency, designating the Wisconsin Department of Health Services as the lead agency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and authorizing the Adjutant General to activate the Wisconsin National Guard if needed. Read more about Executive Order #104 and Emergency Order #1 here. 

For more news, check out the Action News section of our weekly e-newsletter Big I Buzz. If you aren't subscribed, click here to add your email to our emailing list. Don't forget you can stay up-to-date on other industry news and conversation by joining the IIAW's Online Community, exclusively for IIAW members. You can join the Online Community here. We hope that everyone has a great rest of their week!