Workers’ Compensation Commissioner Albert Betts Announces Resignation

Austin, TX  (CompNewsNetwork) -  Albert Betts, Commissioner of Workers' Compensation, Texas Department of Insurance, has announced his resignation effective August 31, 2008.  Betts was appointed as the first commissioner of the Division of Workers' Compensation at the Texas Department of Insurance in 2005.

“In serving as Commissioner of Workers' Compensation over the last three years, and previously as the Chief of Staff for the Department of Insurance, Albert has proven his unwavering commitment to the citizens of Texas,” said Governor Rick Perry.  “I commend Albert for his service to the state, and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Commissioner Betts provided the following statement:

“We have accomplished much in the past three years in implementing the workers' compensation system reforms spelled out in the 2005 legislation.  We have laid a solid foundation for the system going forward, including working to reform the agency itself to become an effective regulator and manager of the workers' compensation system in Texas.  

“There is still work to be done, especially in the area of outreach and education to system stakeholders, but I am pleased with the progress made during my tenure as Commissioner. 

“It remains critical that that injured workers get the service they need from their workers' compensation insurance carrier as well as the agency, and that efforts be continued to keep workers' compensation costs at a reasonable level for Texas employers.  In addition, the commitment to resolving disputes in a timely manner, and to helping injured workers return to work as soon as possible must be maintained.  

“With these continued efforts, and the agency talent and resources I have been privileged to lead for the past three years, I believe the future looks bright for the Texas workers' compensation system.”

Texas Insurance Commissioner Mike Geeslin said “Commissioner Betts is a great leader, one who took on an assignment that involved merging two agencies while implementing major reform legislation.  Few in the history of this state's government can lay claim to an accomplishment of this magnitude.  Albert will be missed, and I wish him the best.”

For more information contact: PIO@tdi.state.tx.us

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