Forensic data analysis and applied econometrics
Understanding changes over time in the receipt of workers’ compensation benefits
Featured Research Project (Job Market Paper)
Why did the receipt of workers’ compensation decrease by 43.6 percent from 2003 through 2018? Using data from the Current Population Survey and the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, analysis indicates that 68 percent of this decrease—29.5 percentage points—is directly associated with improvements to workplace safety.
Operational Analysis of SSA Pending Caseload
Interactive Dashboard
How does the handling of claims for Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income vary by state? Using SSA State Agency Monthly Workload Data, an interactive Tableau dashboard allows users to dynamically visualize these patterns. (Methodology)
The Decrease in Workers’ Compensation Awards: Safer Workplaces or Stricter Insurers?
Policy Brief
Between 2003 and 2018, awards in Oregon declined by 35.5 percent, raising a central policy and industry question: are workplaces becoming safer, or are insurers becoming more restrictive? Using administrative claims data from the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services and injury data from the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, analysis indicates that improvements in workplace safety account for the entire reduction in awards.
Spillovers from workers’ compensation to Social Security Disability Insurance: evidence from Oregon
Research Project
How do changes in workers’ compensation law spillover to applications for benefits from Social Security Disability Insurance? Using SSA State Agency Monthly Workload Data, analysis indicates no spillover effect from a 2003 change in Oregon law.