Happy Wednesday! In this week’s Big I Buzz: Wisconsin lawmakers consider updates to the state’s workers’ compensation system, and a new research institute—developed in partnership with UW–Madison—will take a deeper look at severe convective storms.

Wisconsin Lawmakers Weigh Workers' Comp Overhaul

Wisconsin lawmakers are reviewing Assembly Bill 651, which proposes several updates to the state’s workers’ compensation system. Key provisions include increasing the maximum weekly compensation for permanent partial disability and revising guidelines for compromise claim agreements and statute of limitations rules.

The bill reflects a consensus reached by the Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation Advisory Council, which provides recommendations to legislators and the Department of Workforce Development. Read more here.

New Institute to Study Severe Convective Storms

A new insurance research center—the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on Convective Storms (CIRCS)—has launched at Northern Illinois University in partnership with the University of Wisconsin–Madison. CIRCS aims to advance the understanding of severe convective storms, which are among the leading causes of costly insurance claims.

The center will focus on research that supports improved resilience, helping communities better withstand the impacts of convective storms. Approximately two dozen scientists from atmospheric science, engineering, geography, physics, computer science, actuarial science, and risk and insurance will contribute to its work. Read more here.

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