Bath Iron Works v. Workers Compensation

**Bath Iron Works v. Workers Compensation (2004)** **What Happened:** Michael Preston, a worker at Bath Iron Works Corporation, suffered from workplace harassment and a hostile work environment that worsened his existing neurological condition. Preston applied for workers' compensation benefits, arguing that the workplace stress had made his disability worse. Bath Iron Works fought against paying these benefits. **What the Court Decided:** The First Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Preston. The court agreed that even though Preston had a pre-existing neurological condition, the harassment and stress he experienced at work made his condition significantly worse. Because the workplace environment aggravated his disability, Preston was entitled to workers' compensation benefits under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. **Why This Matters for Workers:** This decision is important because it shows that workers can receive compensation even when they have pre-existing health conditions. If workplace harassment, stress, or hostile environments make an existing medical condition worse, employers may still be responsible for providing workers' compensation benefits. Workers don't need to prove their condition was entirely caused by work—just that work made it worse.