Bill > S04518

This bill amends the workers' compensation law to clarify that communications between a claimant's attorney or representative and an injured employee's treating healthcare provider or medical consultant are not considered improper influence. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language to explicitly state that verbal or written communication by an attorney with a medical professional in a workers' compensation case cannot be presumed to be an attempt to improperly influence the medical opinion. The communication also cannot be used as a basis to diminish or preclude the medical professional's opinion. This change provides legal protection for attorneys seeking medical information or discussing a case with healthcare providers, ensuring that such interactions do not automatically trigger accusations of improper interference. The bill aims to facilitate more open communication between legal representatives and medical professionals in workers' compensation cases while maintaining the integrity of medical assessments.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4518