Michigan Advances Workers’ Comp Changes

Legislation that could help employers contain costs related to compensating workers injured on the job cleared a Michigan House committee this week.

The Republican-led House Commerce Committee approved the changes to workers’ compensation laws by an 11-7 vote, mostly along party lines, to send the measure to the House floor.

The changes are supported by business groups in part because they are expected to help reduce or limit workers’ compensation costs for employers. Supporters say the bill contains measures aimed at making sure injured workers return to their jobs or seek alternative employment when they’re able.

The measures are supposed to clarify and update Michigan’s workers’ compensation law to reflect medical, legal and economic advancements. The legislation would put some court rulings into state statute, which supporters say could cut down on the number of workers’ compensation lawsuits.

Supporters say changes to the law would not affect those currently receiving benefits or with pending claims.

Some unions and trial lawyers’ groups oppose the proposed changes, saying it could become harder for employees to file claims or receive benefits they deserve.

Democrats also are concerned that injured workers seeking to get a second medical opinion or visit their own doctors would have to do so at their own expense.

The legislation is House Bill 5002.