A bill for an act relating to injuries subject to workers' compensation and including retroactive applicability provisions.
Impact
The retroactive applicability of this bill is a notable aspect, as it allows for claims related to injuries occurring on or after August 1, 2022. This means that individuals who might have missed the two-year window due to circumstances outlined in the bill can still pursue their claims, thus potentially increasing the number of successful claims and offering financial relief to those injured as a result of workplace incidents. This change reflects a shift toward supporting the rights of employees within the state's workers' compensation system.
Summary
House File 421 aims to reform the administration of workers' compensation benefits in Iowa by amending the time limits for workers to file claims related to work-related injuries. The bill stipulates that the existing two-year period within which a worker must initiate a claim can be extended if the employee was unable to obtain an accurate diagnosis of the injury during that timeframe due to the actions or inactions of a health service provider chosen by the employer. This provision seeks to offer greater protection to employees who may face delays in diagnosis that affect their ability to claim benefits.
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding HF421 include the implications for employers and insurance providers, who may argue that extending the claim period could lead to increased costs and extended liabilities. There may also be ongoing debates regarding the burden of proof placed on employees to demonstrate a diligent effort to obtain a diagnosis, as this could lead to disputes over whether a delay was justified. The nuanced nature of injury diagnosis and its effects on employment reflects broader discussions in the legislative arena about balancing employee protections with business interests.
A bill for an act relating to the choice of doctor to treat injured employees under workers' compensation laws and including effective date and applicability provisions.
A bill for an act relating to workers' compensation benefits involving violations of occupational safety and health or child labor laws, providing penalties, and including applicability provisions.
A bill for an act relating to public safety personnel retirement systems, the taxation of surviving spouse pension benefits, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(See HF 2680.)
A bill for an act relating to public safety personnel retirement systems, the taxation of surviving spouse pension benefits, and including retroactive applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 745.) Effective date: 07/01/2024. Applicability date: 01/01/2024.
A bill for an act relating to nonsubstantive Code corrections, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly SSB 1136.)
A bill for an act excluding nonqualified deferred compensation income from the individual income tax, and including retroactive applicability provisions.(See HF 2638.)
A bill for an act relating to nonsubstantive Code corrections, and including effective date and retroactive applicability provisions. (Formerly HSB 159.) Contingent effective date. Applicability date: 01/01/2022, 01/01/2023.