The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), under the direction of the division’s appointed commissioner, oversees the administration and operation of the Texas workers’ compensation system. DWC monitors compliance of all parties, taking enforcement action when necessary, to ensure that the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act, Texas Labor Code, and other regulations regarding workers’ compensation are implemented and enforced. According to Texas Labor Code section 402.021, the goals of DWC are to ensure that:
- Each employee be treated with dignity and respect when injured on the job;
- Each injured employee has access to a fair and accessible dispute resolution process;
- Each injured employee has access to prompt, high-quality medical care; and
- Each injured employee receives services to facilitate their return to work as soon as it is considered safe and appropriate by their health care provider.
DWC does not pay benefits on workers’ compensation claims. Insurance carriers (including licensed insurance companies, governmental entities, certified self-insured employers, and group self-insured employers) pay benefits.