Roller v. Basic Construction Co.

In this workers’ compensation case, we must determine whether the claimant’s right to benefits was affected by a legislative change in the statute of limitations. Ordinarily, in cases originating before the Industrial Commission, a decision of the Court of Appeals is final, Code § 17-116.07(A)(2), but we granted this appeal because it involves “matters of significant precedential value.” Code § 17-116.07(B).

Clyde F. Roller was employed by Basic Construction Company (Basic), first as a carpenter and later as a- carpenter foreman, from 1949 to 1977. He lived with his wife in Newport News until…