Who is responsible for managing the Arkansas workers' compensation program?

The Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission is the entity responsible for managing the workers' compensation program in Arkansas. This agency oversees the administration of the workers' compensation system, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, processing claims, and facilitating the dispute resolution process between injured workers and employers or insurance carriers. By managing these essential functions, the Commission plays a critical role in providing workers with the benefits they are entitled to when injured on the job, while also ensuring that employers fulfill their responsibilities under the law.

In contrast, the Arkansas Labor Department focuses on broader labor issues and workforce development initiatives, rather than the specific functions of workers' compensation. The Arkansas Insurance Department regulates insurance providers, but it does not manage the workers' compensation program directly. The Arkansas Occupational Safety Board deals with workplace safety but is not tasked with the administration of workers' compensation benefits. Therefore, the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission is the correct answer for managing the program effectively.