AURELIO MERCADO vs. TARGET STORES, SEDGWICK CLAIMS MANAGEMENT SERVICES
This case concerns a dispute over a permanent disability rating for an injured worker, Aurelio Mercado. The WCJ initially found the applicant's vocational expert's opinion admissible, leading to a finding of total disability, and rejected the employer's apportionment argument. However, the Appeals Board rescinded this decision, citing recent en banc rulings in *Almaraz* and *Ogilvie* which clarified the standards for rebutting permanent disability ratings. The matter is returned to the trial level for further proceedings and a new decision consistent with these updated legal precedents regarding diminished future earning capacity and apportionment.