2020 legislative review
Rep . Zack Hudgins , D-Tukwila , is chair of the House Innovation , Technology & Economic Development Committee .
misappropriation of the 608 / 609 funds is becoming more prevalent . AWB continues to oppose the misuse of dedicated workers ’ compensation funds .
SHB 2409 concerning industrial insurance employer penalties , duties , and the licensing of third-party administrators
Passed / AWB Opposed / Neutral
Substitute House Bill 2409 was sponsored by Rep . Christine Kilduff , D-University Place . The original bill would have increased certain employer penalties under workers ’ compensation . It created an employer fiduciary duty to workers , to be regulated by the Department of Labor and Industries .
It also would create a license for claims administrators . The bill would have had an impact on all employers . It would have imposed upon all employers and their lay representatives a good faith obligation toward injured workers in the handling of their claims . This new allegation , which could be made against business owners , retro groups , managers , human resources , vocational counselors , fraud investigators , nurse case managers , etc ., would be adjudicated by the Department on a very vague standard and be subject to a substantial penalty . After substantial negotiations the bill was amended to limit its certification requirements to third party administrators working for self-insured employers . It also made a more reasonable increase in penalties . The amendment removed the “ good faith obligation .” AWB opposed the bill as it passed the House . AWB was neutral with the final bill .
SB 6372 concerning structured settlements
Failed / AWB Supported
Senate Bill 6372 , sponsored by Sen . Curtis King , R-Yakima , would have removed the requirement that an injured worker be at least 50 years old to settle workers ’ compensation claims through structured settlements . It also would have removed the requirement that 180 days must elapse after a final and binding order to initiate a settlement if the agreement is to resolve a closed or disputed claim . This was a missed opportunity . AWB supported the bill .
SB 6373 allowing self-insurers to accept certain industrial insurance claims
Failed / AWB Supported
Senate Bill 6373 , sponsored by Sen . Curtis King , R-Yakima , would have allowed self-insurers to issue an order allowing a workers ’ compensation claim within 60 days from the date that the claim is filed where the worker may be entitled to benefits , other than medical treatment only , and when the self-insurer has determined the claim will be allowed . This bill would have streamlined selfinsured cases to allow for a quicker order
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