What Act provides Workers Compensation coverage for persons involved in interstate transportation, such as railroad workers?

The Federal Employer's Liability Act (FELA) provides Workers Compensation coverage specifically for individuals involved in interstate transportation, including railroad workers. This federal law allows injured employees of railroads to sue their employers for damages resulting from workplace accidents or injuries. FELA was enacted to ensure that railroad workers receive compensation for their injuries, recognizing the unique hazards they face due to the nature of their work, which often involves interstate travel and operations.

Unlike state workers' compensation laws, which typically cover a broad range of employment scenarios within a state, FELA is specifically designed to handle the nuances associated with railroad employment and interstate commerce. It allows for more extensive liability beyond what standard workers' compensation programs may cover, thereby ensuring railroad employees have critical legal protections.

By targeting the specific needs of railroad workers and the circumstances of interstate commerce, FELA addresses the gaps left by state workers' compensation laws, making it a vital piece of legislation for those in the railroad industry.