Appeal of Staniels

The claimant, Brian Staniels, appeals a decision of the New Hampshire Compensation Appeals Board (board) denying his request for attorney’s fees. See RSA 281-A:44,1 (Supp. 1997). He also challenges the board’s decision to limit its consideration of new evidence he raised on appeal. We affirm in part, reverse in part, and remand.

The claimant suffered a back injury on May 20, 1991, when he fell from a truck while working for his employer, Stonyfield Farm, Inc. The respondents, Stonyfield Farm and its insurance carrier, Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, voluntarily paid the claimant temporary…