Oklahoma Supreme Court Referee to Hear Workers’ Comp Case

An Oklahoma Supreme Court referee is scheduled to hear arguments in a lawsuit that challenges the constitutionality of Oklahoma’s new workers’ compensation law.

Arguments are scheduled Thursday in the lawsuit filed in September by state Sen. Harry Coates of Seminole, Rep. Emily Virgin of Norman and the Professional Firefighters of Oklahoma.

Legislation to overhaul the state’s workers’ compensation system was signed into law by Gov. Mary Fallin in May. It was a top priority for Republican leaders who say the state’s previous system was a detriment to business and industry in the state.

Among other things, the law changes Oklahoma’s court-based system to an administrative one. Supporters say the change will dramatically reduce workers’ compensation costs to businesses. Opponents say cost savings will come at the expense of injured workers.