Bill > SB345

This bill revises workers' compensation laws by changing the evidentiary standards for medical providers and independent medical examinations. Specifically, the bill removes the previous preference given to treating physicians' opinions and requires that medical testimony be evaluated based on the healthcare professional's education, training, experience, expertise, extent of interaction with the employee, and overall credibility. The bill also limits discovery related to independent medical examiners to their professional background, number of exams performed, and payments received from insurers. Additionally, the bill modifies existing law to clarify that when an employee is requested to undergo a medical examination by an insurer, the insurer must now cover reasonable expenses such as travel, lodging, meals, child care, and pet care, as well as compensation for lost wages up to the employee's compensation benefit rate. The bill aims to provide a more balanced approach to evaluating medical evidence in workers' compensation cases and ensures that employees are fairly compensated for examination-related expenses. The changes are effective immediately upon passage and approval.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC4247