Bill > H1945

This bill proposes the following key changes to workers' compensation insurance in Massachusetts: 1. It prohibits the use of photographs or videos of a claimant or their family without the claimant's written consent in any claim for compensation that is denied by an insurer or self-insurer. 2. It extends the period during which an insurer can make timely payments without affecting its right to contest any issue from 180 days to 180 calendar days, and imposes penalties on insurers for failing to make required payments within specified timeframes. 3. It modifies the requirements for an insurer to terminate or modify payments, including the need for an order or decision from an arbitrator, administrative judge, or reviewing board. 4. It clarifies the process for filing claims for benefits, including the required documentation, and the conditions under which attorney's fees may be awarded. 5. It repeals section 11A of the existing law, which had established a conciliation process. 6. It makes other technical and procedural changes to the workers' compensation system in the state.