SB 220 – Worker’s Compensation
Authored by Sen. Karen Tallian (D-Portage)
Provides that if, after the occurrence of an accident, compensation is paid for temporary total disability or temporary partial disability, then the two-year limitation period to file an application for adjustment of claim begins to run on the last date for which such compensation was paid. Increases benefits for injuries and disablements by 2% each year for three years, beginning on July 1, 2021.
Chamber position: Oppose
The latest: No hearing has been scheduled yet, but there was notable activity this week leading up to a decision on taking action on the bill.
Indiana Chamber action/commentary: The current language in the legislation is unacceptable to the Chamber because nothing is offered to the business community – only the increase to worker’s comp benefits. So, we have been working with Rep. Matt Lehman (R-Berne), the House sponsor, and Sen. Tallian to try to reach a more satisfactory outcome.
There appear to be two options at this point: 1) Pass a 2% employee benefit increase for three years now with nothing addressed regarding an employer benefit until next year; or 2) Wait until 2022 to do both – provide an employer benefit (capping ambulatory surgical center reimbursement rate at Medicare plus some determined acceptable amount) and a higher employee benefit similar to what was proposed last year: a 5% increase in the first year followed by 4%, 3% and finally 2% increases over a four-year period. Without certainty of an employer fix, we oppose the first option and would support the second.
While the ball is currently in the House’s court regarding benefits, the decision to continue playing is really up to Sen. Tallian. The bill will continue to move with or without the benefit increase because of the provision regarding the two-year limitation period to file an application for adjustment of a claim.
Resource: Mike Ripley at (317) 264-6883 or email: mripley@indianachamber.com
