Bill > HB197

This bill modifies Montana's workers' compensation laws regarding the termination of temporary total disability benefits. Specifically, the bill provides new guidelines for when an insurance company can stop paying temporary total disability benefits when a worker is released to return to work. Under the new provisions, if a worker is released to full duty prior to or at the point of reaching maximum medical improvement, the insurance company can terminate benefits either when the worker returns to work or after providing 14 days' written notice, whichever comes first. The bill requires that before converting temporary disability benefits, the insurer must obtain a physician's determination of medical stability, physical restrictions, and the worker's ability to return to work, either to their original job or a suitable alternative job based on the worker's age, education, work experience, and physical condition. These changes aim to clarify the conditions under which temporary total disability benefits can be stopped and ensure that appropriate medical assessments are made before benefit termination. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2254