Workers’ Comp Reform Signed by Michigan Governor

Workers’ compensation reform legislation that supporters say will help reduce employer costs for assisting injured workers is now law in Michigan. Gov. Rick Snyder signed House Bill 5002 in late December 2011.

Republicans say the measure updates Michigan’s workers’ compensation laws, reflects recent court rulings and could help crack down on fraud while encouraging injured workers to seek some type of employment when they’re able, the Associated Press reported.

Democrats opposing the measure say it could become harder for injured employees to receive and keep benefits.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce, which supported the bill, says HB 5002 stabilizes and modernizes Michigan’s workers’ compensation law. The Chamber also said the bill balances the needs of injured workers and their employers.

Senate Democrats, who voted against the legislation, say HB 5002 cripples the ability of disabled workers who are injured on the job to receive benefits.

Under the new law workers’ comp benefit recipients are required to work if they’re offered a job within their skill set that they can physically perform. If they don’t take the job, they risk losing their benefits. Democrats say the provision forces workers to look for lower-paying, alternative jobs.

The new law exempts police and fire department employees from many of the new rules. Attempts by Democrats to exempt other types of workers, such as corrections officers, failed.

Supporters said the changes reflect recent court rulings, which should make definitions clearer and cut down on the number of workers’ compensation lawsuits.

“The system’s goal must be to help injured workers get back on the job as soon as possible while making sure the benefits they deserve during recovery are paid fully and promptly,” Gov. Snyder said.

Associated Press reports contributed to this story.

Topics Legislation Workers' Compensation Michigan