Bill > HB423

This bill clarifies and modifies Hawaii's workers' compensation laws regarding vocational rehabilitation services for injured employees. The bill aims to improve the process of selecting and working with rehabilitation service providers by requiring providers to automatically approve vocational rehabilitation services for an injured employee if those services will likely be needed to return the employee to suitable gainful employment. The legislation introduces new requirements such as mandating that providers file an employee's vocational rehabilitation plan within 90 days of submitting an initial evaluation report, with provisions for deadline extensions if all parties agree. The bill also clarifies the selection process for rehabilitation providers, specifying that if an employee does not choose a provider within 30 days, the employer can select one, and the employee then has an additional 30 days to choose a different provider if desired. The changes are intended to expedite rehabilitation services, ensure early intervention for injured workers, and address concerns about the future availability of vocational rehabilitation providers by establishing clearer guidelines and processes. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2050, giving ample time for implementation and adjustment by employers, insurers, and rehabilitation service providers.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry, Labor and Employment

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=423&year=2025