When Undocumented Immigrants Are Hurt at Work

Workers Comp Matters

These are unprecedented times for the rights of immigrant workers in the United States. The current political climate has thrown a wrench into the Workers’ Compensation system when it comes to workers without documentation. Understanding the system can help.

Guest Enrique Flores is the founder of the Flores Law Group in Indianapolis, Indiana, and a leader in immigrant workers’ rights. The son of immigrant parents, he says immigrant workers have always sought to live and work unnoticed, “invisible.” But in today’s charged political climate, the fear is real.

When an undocumented worker contacts you for legal assistance, understanding the Workers’ Comp laws in your state is vital. Times may change, but the law and protections haven’t. The law provides benefits for people who are injured at work. What’s changed for workers is the importance of living a lawful life. Clients should stay out of legal trouble, ensure their car is legally registered and in working order, and avoid giving anyone a reason to question them.

At the workplace, if immigration services show up (ICE), clients should know to stay calm and carry what are called “red cards” detailing their rights along with the card of an attorney they can call. The law still works for injured workers, no matter their immigration status. For attorneys, a little proactive outreach to the community could go a long way.

If you have thoughts on Workers’ Comp law or an idea for a topic or guest you’d like to hear, contact us at [email protected] or [email protected].

Mentioned in This Episode:

Red Card/Tarjeta Rojas

Print your own Red Card, Immigrant Legal Resources Center

American Immigration Lawyer’s Association

National Immigrant Justice Association phone [phone]

National Immigration Law Center

Northwest Justice Project

Workers’ Injury Law & Advocacy Group

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