Bill > SB308

This bill revises workers' compensation insurance laws to remove the current limitation that ties weekly compensation benefits to the state's average weekly wage. Instead, the bill establishes a flat maximum weekly benefit of $2,885 for various types of workers' compensation benefits, including temporary total disability, permanent total disability, permanent partial disability, and death benefits. The changes apply to multiple sections of Montana's workers' compensation statutes, specifically modifying sections 39-71-118, 39-71-701, 39-71-702, 39-71-703, and 39-71-721. Previously, workers' compensation benefits were capped at 1½ times the state's average weekly wage, but this bill replaces that variable calculation with a fixed maximum dollar amount. This change could potentially increase benefits for some workers by providing a more consistent and potentially higher maximum benefit regardless of the state's average wage fluctuations. The bill maintains the fundamental structure of workers' compensation benefits, including the calculation of benefits as a percentage of the worker's wages (typically 66 2/3%), while simply adjusting the maximum benefit cap.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1836