Bill > SB202

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.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2784