Maryland Senate Bill SB919

Maryland 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/24
• Refer: 2/2/24

Caption

Workers' Compensation - Modification of Award - Extension

Impact

The implications of SB919 are significant as it could potentially alter how workers' compensation claims are processed, especially in cases where claimants discover new information regarding their condition after an award has been granted. By expanding the modification window, the bill may allow for a more just outcome for workers who may experience changes in their disabilities or other circumstances that could affect their compensation. It's a response to concerns that the current limitations might be too restrictive for individuals looking to receive fair compensation for their injuries.

Summary

Senate Bill 919 focuses on the modification of awards within the Workers' Compensation framework. Specifically, it aims to extend the duration in which the Maryland Workers' Compensation Commission can modify awards if an appeal is filed. The bill proposes to add a provision that allows the time limitation for applying for modification to be extended by 60 days if an appeal is active during the original modification period. As such, this adjustment seeks to provide claimants with a more equitable timeframe to address changes in their compensation awards due to later discovered factors affecting their disability status.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB919 may revolve around how this extension could impact the efficiency and operational capacity of the Workers' Compensation Commission. Critics of the bill may raise concerns regarding the administrative burden of extended appeals and the potential for increased litigation as claimants utilize the additional time to contest awards. Moreover, there could be apprehensions about the balance between facilitating claimant rights and the potential for delaying resolutions in workers' compensation cases. Proponents argue that these changes are essential for ensuring fair treatment and proper legal recourse for injured workers.