When you read the words "workplace injury," what image comes to mind?

A construction worker falling from a ladder? A cook slicing her hand while prepping food? A plant worker injured by a piece of machinery? A delivery truck driver involved in a highway crash?

Those certainly qualify as workplace injuries, but it's not only accidents or mishaps that cause workplace injuries that are compensable under state workers' compensation laws. Workplace injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome or back injuries, for example, can occur over time. And some workers develop occupational diseases from prolonged exposure to toxins in the workplace.

People suffering from all types of workplace injuries and/or illnesses may be able to file a workers' compensation claim and receive benefits. In the case of illnesses or injuries that develop over time, it's important that the law gives workers time to receive a proper medical diagnosis.

That's why it's disappointing when lawmakers limit employees' rights to file for workers' compensation, as Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal did last week.

Jindal vetoed a bill that would have given injured workers in Louisiana three years after an injury, instead of two, to file a workers' compensation claim. Interestingly, the legislation passed by  wide margins in the Louisiana state Senate and House. But the governor, buying into the business and insurance lobby's argument that expanding the filing window would lead to more workers' comp fraud and higher costs for businesses, refused to sign the legislation into law.