Jaime Villalobos — ADJ11340474, ADJ11340473, ADJ11340475

Applicant Jaime Villalobos, a delivery driver/clerk, sought reconsideration or removal of a September 12, 2022 Minute Order closing discovery (except for the deposition of AME Dr. Mark Anderson). Applicant argued he received medical reporting shortly after the MSC revealing new diagnoses—including hypertension first diagnosed the day of the MSC—prompting amendment of his applications, and that closure of discovery was prejudicial and violated due process. The Board dismissed the petition to the extent it sought reconsideration, holding that the discovery-closure order was an interlocutory procedural order, not a final order. However, the Board granted removal, concluding the medical evidence adduced on the afternoon of the MSC constituted a changed circumstance and that closing discovery would significantly prejudice applicant's ability to develop the record on his newly pleaded injuries. The Board rescinded the order closing discovery and suggested the WCJ consider consolidating the three pending cases.