Bill > HB123

This bill modifies provisions related to workers' compensation administrative law judges, making several significant changes to their employment, oversight, and disciplinary procedures. The bill removes the previous system of periodic retention votes for administrative law judges and replaces it with a more direct process for addressing performance and misconduct. The director of the division of workers' compensation is now empowered to file a complaint with the administrative hearing commission to remove an administrative law judge for serious infractions, including criminal behavior, misconduct, or professional incompetence. The bill also provides a 90-day period for judges to remedy certain performance issues before potential removal. Additionally, the legislation allows for immediate suspension with pay in specific circumstances, such as being held without bond for an extended period or losing a law license. The bill clarifies compensation structures for administrative law judges, removes some previous administrative roles like chief legal counsel, and updates various procedural details related to workers' compensation administrative proceedings. These changes aim to strengthen accountability and performance standards for administrative law judges in the workers' compensation system.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB123&year=2025&code=R