Bill > HB2369

This bill modifies the workers' compensation system to provide special protections and procedural advantages for certain public safety workers, specifically custodial officers, detention officers, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and peace officers. The bill allows these workers to request an additional medical examination to define their workplace injury, even if a previous examination has been conducted. It also establishes stricter requirements for insurance carriers when responding to claims from these workers, including mandating more detailed explanations when denying benefits and specifying that carriers must waive their right to contest the extent of injury if they do not do so within 60 days of receiving a medical report. Furthermore, the bill requires insurance carriers to directly reimburse these workers for all medical expenses related to their claimed injury if their initial claim is denied and later determined to be compensable through administrative or appeals processes. These provisions aim to provide more comprehensive and expedited support for public safety workers who are injured in the line of duty, ensuring they receive thorough medical evaluation and potential compensation. The changes will apply only to workplace injuries occurring on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

Labor and Employment

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2369