Michael Barnes — ADJ11214895, ADJ11111878

Applicant Michael Barnes, who suffered two cumulative trauma injuries (a low back injury during 2008-2009 as a Captain and neck/back/hips injuries during 2016-2017 as a peace officer), sought reconsideration of the WCJ's April 6, 2026 Findings, Orders and Award. The WCJ awarded 73% PD in ADJ11214895 and 13% PD in ADJ11111878, found apportionment supported by substantial evidence, rejected Kite/Vigil addition of impairments, and applied Benson separate apportionment. Applicant contended he should have received a joint 100% PD award because the injuries are inextricably intertwined, that there is no substantial evidence for apportionment, and that disability should be added under Kite and Vigil. The Board granted reconsideration, noting the WCJ failed to make jurisdictional findings based on the parties' stipulations as required by section 5903 and that the record may be incomplete on apportionment requiring further development. The Board deferred a final decision pending further review of the merits and the entire record.