Texas Workers’ Comp Bill Goes to Governor

The Texas Senate approved a plan to overhaul the state’s workers’ compensation system and the bill awaits the signature of Gov. Rick Perry.

The plan provides for an increase in income benefits to injured workers and abolishes the Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Perry is expected to sign the bill. According to an announcement released by his office, key aspects of the comprehensive plan include:

–The workers’ compensation system will be governed by a single, appointed commissioner, housed in the Texas Department of Insurance.
–Injured workers will see the cap on weekly benefits increase by 12 percent, and will have a stronger voice in the process through a new Office of Injured Employee Counsel.
–Employers will get some much needed financial relief on insurance costs allowing more employers to opt into the system and freeing resources to grow and create jobs.
–Government mandates on medical fees will be replaced with free market principles, doctors will have a stronger incentive to participate and injured workers will have greater access to care.