Special Disability Trust Fund, Department of Labor and Employment Security v. Master Distributors

In this workers’ compensation case, the Special Disability Trust Fund of the State Department of Labor and Employment Security (Fund) appeals the deputy commissioner’s finding that the Fund is equitably estopped from contesting the employer/carrier’s claim for reimbursement under Section 440.49(5)(f), Florida Statutes (1978 Supp.). Likewise, appellant argues that the deputy erred by ordering the Fund to provide reimbursement. We reverse.

The essential facts are undisputed. The appellee, employer/carrier (e/c), was defending an employee’s claim for workers’ compensation benefits based on an…