Bill

Bill > SB202


MT SB202

Revise laws regarding receipt of workers' compensation benefits on behalf of others


summary

Introduced
01/22/2025
In Committee
02/13/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
05/23/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT ENTITLED: “AN ACT AUTHORIZING A BENEFITS CUSTODIAN TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS ON BEHALF OF A MINOR CHILD OR AN INCOMPETENT PERSON; AUTHORIZING THE WORKERS' COMPENSATION JUDGE TO APPOINT A BENEFITS CUSTODIAN; AMING SECTIONS 39- 71-742 AND 39-71-2905, MCA; AND PROVIDING AN IMMEDIATE EFFECTIVE DATE.”

AI Summary

This bill revises Montana workers' compensation laws to create a new legal role called a "benefits custodian" who can receive workers' compensation payments on behalf of minors (children under 18) or individuals who have been legally declared incompetent. Specifically, the bill allows a workers' compensation judge to appoint a benefits custodian upon petition by a claimant, insurer, or the uninsured employers' fund, without requiring the typical dispute resolution process. The benefits custodian will have the legal authority to receive and manage workers' compensation payments for individuals who cannot directly receive or manage these funds themselves. This change expands the existing law, which previously only allowed parents or appointed guardians to receive such payments, by adding the benefits custodian as an authorized recipient. The bill provides a clear definition of the benefits custodian's role and grants the workers' compensation judge the explicit jurisdiction to both appoint and terminate a benefits custodian's appointment. The legislation is effective immediately upon passage and approval, meaning it can be implemented right away.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

(S) Died in Process (on 05/23/2025)

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