Bill > SB705

This bill modifies Oregon's workers' compensation law to provide enhanced temporary total disability benefits, particularly for workers with lower wages. The key provisions include establishing a new minimum benefit calculation method where workers earning less than or equal to the average weekly wage will receive 100% of their average weekly wage from the prior 52 weeks, instead of the previous sliding scale that capped benefits at 66-2/3% of wages with a minimum of $50 per week. The bill clarifies how weekly wages are calculated for workers with single or multiple jobs, and provides specific guidelines for determining disability benefits based on employment status at the time of injury or occupational disease diagnosis. The changes aim to provide more equitable compensation for workers who are temporarily totally disabled, with a particular focus on supporting workers with lower incomes. The amendments will apply to temporary total disability compensation for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026, giving employers and insurers time to prepare for the new benefit calculation method.

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https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB705