Texas House Bill HB2088

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/19/11
• Introduced: 3/2/11
• Refer: 3/8/11
• Report Pass: 4/12/11

Caption

Relating to suspension of payment of certain income benefits under the workers' compensation system for failure to submit to a designated doctor examination.

Impact

The passing of HB2088 could significantly affect how workers' compensation claims are handled in Texas. If enacted, the bill would provide a clearer procedural framework for insurance carriers when it comes to suspending benefits linked to employee examinations. The requirement for carriers to give reasonable notice to employees prior to examinations, as well as allowing them to reschedule for good cause, is intended to balance the enforcement of suspension while safeguarding employee rights.

Summary

House Bill 2088 aims to amend the Texas Labor Code specifically concerning the suspension of income benefits under the workers' compensation system. The bill allows insurance carriers to suspend the payment of temporary income benefits if an employee fails to attend a designated doctor examination, unless the employee has a good cause for their absence. This legislative change is part of an effort to ensure that employees comply with the examination requirements, which is seen as crucial for determining the proper compensation owed to injured workers.

Contention

However, some points of contention surrounding HB2088 have been raised. Critics argue that the bill may disproportionately impact workers who might face genuine barriers to attending examinations, such as transportation issues or health-related difficulties. There is concern that this legislation could lead to unjust penalties for employees who are unable to comply with the examination requirements for reasons beyond their control. The discourse in legislative discussions points to a need for careful consideration of how such policies may affect vulnerable populations seeking compensation for work-related injuries.