2007 Summary of Legislative Changes

HB 424 Workers' Compensation

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-2:

This section was amended to add certain employees connected with the raising, feeding of, and caring for wildlife in the definition of a farm laborer.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-100:

This section was amended to address the dismissal of certain claims where no hearing is held for 5 years.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-200.1(a):

This section was amended to increase the number of days, from 15 to 20, that an employer/insurer may file a request for a rehabilitation supplier.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-202:

This section was amended to clarify that examinations may also include psychological examinations.

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-205:

This section was modified in order to clarify that pharmaceutical costs are included in the costs of medical treatment and services that are regulated by the Board

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-261 and O.C.G.A. §34-9-262:

This section was amended to increase the maximum weekly cap on disability benefits for injured workers. For injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2007, the maximum weekly temporary total disability (TTD) rate will be $500.00 and the maximum weekly temporary partial disability rate (TPD) will be $334.00.

SB 131 Subsequent Injury Trust Fund

Amend O.C.G.A. §34-9-358:

This section was amended to authorize the Subsequent Injury Trust Fund to continue to make assessments against employers who were formerly self-insured and later obtained workers´ compensation coverage.