MA Dept of Industrial Accidents Requiring Electronic Filing of All First Reports of Injury by Jan 1, 2014

Starting January 1, 2014, the Massachusetts DIA requires all Form 101 First Reports of Injury (FRI) to be submitted electronically—paper copies will no longer be accepted. Employers can submit forms via secure file transfer or through the DIA website with an authorized online account. While this change affects submissions to the DIA, the process for notifying Murphy Insurance or your insurance company remains the same. To avoid delays, businesses should apply for a DIA Online Account as soon as possible.

MA RMV Restores Renewal Reminders by Mail

The RMV has resumed its birthday postcard reminder service, notifying drivers if they can renew online or must visit a branch. Supported by advertising, this service helps Massachusetts’ 4.75 million licensed drivers stay updated, with 87,000–92,000 postcards sent monthly.

Thank You & Be Safe Over Thanksgiving

During this season of gratitude, we express our heartfelt thanks to all who have supported our success, especially our loyal customers. We deeply appreciate your trust in Murphy Insurance Agency as we strive to safeguard you, your loved ones, and your business endeavors.

Safety Tips: Prevent Kitchen Fires This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving brings joy but also heightened kitchen risks. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that cooking fires triple on Thanksgiving, emphasizing the need for vigilance and safety measures like staying present while cooking and keeping fire extinguishers handy.

Cook Safely This Thanksgiving to Prevent Kitchen Fires

Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires—more than triple the daily average. Stay safe by never leaving cooking unattended, keeping children away from hot surfaces, and having smoke alarms and a fire escape plan in place.

Our Toys for Tots 2013 Toy Drive Supports Positive Role Models

Murphy Insurance Agency is proud to kick off its Toys for Tots initiative this holiday season, aiming to support children and families in need within the community. Studies highlight the impact of poverty on children, and initiatives like Toys for Tots serve as vital forms of passive mentoring, delivering messages of hope and positive role modeling through the generosity of donors and the Marines who distribute these toys.

RMV requires 72 Hour Notice to Cancel Road Test

Effective November 13, 2013, the MA RMV requires 72 hours’ notice (instead of 24) to cancel or reschedule a road test without paying the fee. This includes weekends and holidays, and cancellations can be made online or via the automated phone system when RMV offices are closed.

Hurricane Sandy One Year Later

Hurricane Sandy struck the East Coast on October 29, 2012, causing widespread devastation. A year later, coastal communities were still grappling with the aftermath, with many families and businesses facing ongoing challenges in rebuilding and financial recovery.

Flood Insurance Reform may Significantly Increase Premiums for Some Property Owners

As of October 1, 2013, changes to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) under the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act are being phased in. These reforms aim to make the program more financially stable by phasing out subsidized rates and aligning premiums with actual flood risk. Not all policyholders will be affected immediately, but rate increases—especially on secondary homes, businesses, and repeatedly flooded properties—are underway. Be informed and prepared if you own property in a flood-prone area.

Affordable Care Act Employee Notification Required by October 1, 2013

With an impending deadline under the Affordable Care Act, all employers are required to inform current employees about their options through the Exchanges by October 1, 2013. Subsequently, employers must provide notices to all new employees after this date.