Ramos, Walter

Walter Ramos claimed an industrial injury while employed by 99 Cents Only Stores, a permissibly self-insured employer that subsequently declared bankruptcy and entered liquidation. The Self-Insurers' Security Fund (SISF), administered by Tristar Risk Management, filed a petition to join itself as a party defendant along with a petition for change of administrator and notice of representation. The WCJ denied the petition for joinder, reasoning that SISF steps into the shoes of the insolvent self-insurer (analogous to CIGA) and need only file a notice of change of administrator rather than seek formal joinder. SISF sought removal, arguing a formal order of joinder is required to participate. The Appeals Board granted removal, finding the WCJ summarily denied the petition without a notice of intention or hearing, violating due process. The Board rescinded the December 6, 2024 Order and returned the matter to the trial level for further proceedings.