Texas House Bill HB1155

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

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 implementation of HB 1155 is expected to have significant implications for the Texas workers' compensation framework. By clarifying the circumstances under which income benefits can be suspended, it aims to reduce potential misuse of the system by ensuring that employees understand the importance of attending required medical evaluations. The law intends to establish a clearer pathway for determining benefit eligibility, which can promote fairer outcomes for both injured workers and insurance carriers.

Summary

House Bill 1155 seeks to amend the Labor Code concerning the suspension of certain income benefits within the workers' compensation system. Specifically, it addresses scenarios in which an employee fails to submit to a designated doctor examination, allowing for the suspension of payment for income benefits under specific conditions. The bill allows for the suspension of benefits during the period when an employee does not attend the required examination unless the Texas Commissioner of Workers' Compensation finds adequate justification for their absence. This clause reinforces accountability among employees seeking benefits under the workers' compensation system.

Contention

One point of contention regarding the bill revolves around the definition of 'good cause' for failing to attend the designated examination. Stakeholders have raised concerns about the potential for insurance carriers to misuse this provision, leading to unjust suspensions of benefits. Critics fear that the bill could disproportionately affect vulnerable workers who might have legitimate reasons for missing examinations, such as health issues or lack of access to transportation. The debate centers on balancing accountability for employees while protecting their rights to fair compensation when they cannot fulfill examination requirements due to valid reasons.