Bill > H4071

This bill makes several changes to workers' compensation insurance laws, primarily focusing on evidence, payment timelines, and attorney fees. It prohibits the use of photographs or videos of an injured worker or their family in compensation claims if obtained without the worker's written consent, aiming to protect privacy. The bill also establishes stricter timelines and penalties for insurers who fail to make timely payments to injured workers, with escalating fines for delays of 14, 45, 60, and 90 days, though self-administered public employers have some exceptions. Additionally, it clarifies the conditions under which an insurer can modify or terminate payments, requiring medical reports and employer confirmation of suitable job availability. The bill also revises rules regarding the filing of claims, the process for administrative judges to issue orders, and introduces specific attorney fee amounts for various scenarios involving contested claims, including initial liability claims and subsequent claims, with adjustments based on the outcome of disputes and the complexity of the case. Finally, it mandates that insurers provide adequate health care services, including physical therapy upon request, and requires annual physical examinations for hospitalized injured employees, while also clarifying that agreements for compensation must be reviewed and approved by an administrative judge or administrative law judge.