Louisiana House Bill HB790

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/2/18
• Refer: 4/3/18

Caption

Provides relative to benefits for hearing loss

Impact

If passed, HB 790 would positively impact workers by expanding access to disability benefits for hearing loss. This could lead to increased financial support for individuals who have faced job-related hearing issues, enhancing their quality of life and financial stability. Furthermore, by allowing compensation for gradually acquired disabilities, the bill acknowledges the modern understanding of occupational health, where cumulative trauma can significantly affect an employee's well-being. This change could motivate employers to enhance preventive measures against noise exposure in the workplace to minimize the risk of hearing damage among their workers.

Summary

House Bill 790 seeks to amend the existing workers' compensation laws in Louisiana, focusing specifically on benefits related to hearing loss. The bill proposes to remove the requirement that individuals must have experienced a hearing loss due to a single traumatic accident to qualify for compensable benefits. By doing so, it aims to broaden the scope of injuries that can be compensated under the state's workers' compensation system, thus providing more comprehensive coverage for employees suffering from hearing impairments, regardless of the cause of the damage. This change is likely aimed at reinforcing protections for workers who may have experienced gradual hearing loss due to their work environment or multiple incidents rather than a single event.

Sentiment

General sentiment towards the bill seems to be favorable among worker advocacy groups and labor representatives who perceive it as a necessary step toward more equitable treatment of workers suffering from hearing loss. However, there may be concerns from some businesses and insurance providers regarding the potential increase in liability and associated costs linked to expanded compensable conditions. The dialogue around this bill underlines an ongoing push for reforms that prioritize worker health and safety while balancing the fiscal responsibilities of employers.

Contention

While the bill appears to offer broader protections for workers, there may be points of contention concerning the financial implications for businesses and the workers' compensation system. The potential increase in claims for hearing loss could lead to higher insurance premiums for employers and shift financial burdens that some stakeholders may find unacceptable. Questions about the bill's long-term sustainability and effectiveness in truly addressing the needs of those with hearing impairments are likely to emerge as discussions progress.