Roberts v. Sea-Land Services, Inc.

Summary

The Supreme Court held that under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, an employee is 'newly awarded compensation' when they first become disabled and become statutorily entitled to benefits, regardless of whether a formal compensation order issues. This statutory interpretation aligns with the Act's design, administrative structure, and purpose of avoiding gamesmanship. Justice Ginsburg concurred in part and dissented in part, arguing that 'newly awarded compensation' occurs when an employer voluntarily pays benefits or is ordered to pay.