Texas House Bill HB2055

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to workers' compensation death benefit eligibility of certain spouses.

Impact

This legislation is significant as it alters the previous provisions that allowed benefits to be terminated upon remarriage. By granting lifelong benefits to eligible spouses, it could have a substantial impact on the financial stability of these individuals, particularly in cases where the deceased was a primary breadwinner. The change also aims to ease the emotional burden on survivors, allowing them to focus on their recovery and adjustment without the additional concern of losing financial support due to a new marriage.

Summary

House Bill 2055 proposes amendments to the Texas Labor Code concerning the eligibility for workers' compensation death benefits relating to the marital status of certain spouses. The bill intends to ensure that an eligible spouse can receive death benefits for life, irrespective of whether they remarry, thus providing a sense of financial security for the surviving spouses of workers who die due to compensable injuries. Previously, the benefits would cease upon remarriage, limiting the long-term financial support available to these individuals.

Contention

While the amendments aim to support surviving spouses, discussions around the bill could touch upon the implications for the overall workers' compensation system. Critics may argue that such measures could increase the long-term costs associated with workers' compensation claims. Additionally, the designation of who qualifies as an eligible spouse and the requirements surrounding these benefits may invoke discussions about fairness and equality within the application of workers' compensation laws. It's crucial for the bill to balance support for survivors without imposing excessive financial burdens on the compensation system.