Worker's Comp Reform

The legislature has now embarked upon Workers' Comp reform.  Rep. Dale Folwell (R-Forsyth) filled House Bill 709 this week that addresses many of the problems with the state’s workers’ compensation system.  The bill includes the following comprehensive reforms:

·      Caps temporary total disability to 500 weeks

·      Increases temporary partial disability limits from 300 to 500 weeks

·      Increases the death benefit from 400 to 500 weeks and increases burial expense allowance

·      Better defines “suitable employment” for the workers’ return to work

·      Disqualifies individuals from receiving benefits who willfully misrepresent physical condition when applying for a job

·      Improves structure, operation and accountability of the Industrial Commission by reducing it from seven to five members and requiring legislative confirmation of appointments and brings the Commission under the Administrative Procedures Act

·      Improves communication between the employer and the doctor to better facilitate the employees’ return to work and ensures that both parties have equal access to medical information.

If you have had any problems with Worker's comp that has been a deterrent to growth of your business, let us know and we will pass it along to our local legislative delegation.