Bob Fox's Legislative Update

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 29, 2003) -- Workers' Compensation, and the need for significant reform, continues to be the single biggest issue being considered by the Legislature. With just two weeks left in the legislative session, the pressure is on to come up with an agreement that will be acceptable to all of the interested parties.

The two house conference committee has been meeting for the last three days. On Tuesday they heard from the regulators in the Department of Insurance and other State agencies. On Wednesday there was a panel of employers and employer organizations who provided additional input on the effects of the skyrocketing premiums. The Applicant Attorneys also testified and brought witnesses who have been severely injured, have not received appropriate medical treatment, and have not been able to return to work.

Thursday's session included presentations from the insurance industry, labor, and representatives of the vocational rehabilitation industry.

CTBA is actively lobbying members of the conference committee and has provided them with information relating to member's concerns with the current workers' comp system.

The CTBA website contains two documents related to the discussions now taking place in the conference committee. They include the Workers Comp Reform Plan as prepared by the Insurance Commissioner, John Garamendi, and a Workers Comp Medical Fee Schedule Fact Sheet.

CTBA members are again encouraged to contact your legislator to let them know that significant reform of the Workers' comp system is critical.

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