HB 244 Summary

• Allows employees and employers to voluntarily participate in mediation for disputed workers' compensation claims, conducted by a division of workers' compensation hearing officer or classified employee.

• Establishes mediation as informal, confidential, and non-recorded process where the mediator cannot compel settlement; either party may withdraw after the first conference.

• Permits collective bargaining agreements between employers and labor organizations to establish alternative dispute resolution processes through mediation and mandatory arbitration, with arbitration awards having the same force and effect as hearing officer decisions.

• Allows collective bargaining agreements to designate exclusive health care providers, independent medical evaluators, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and establish joint safety committees and light-duty employment programs.

• Takes effect July 1, 2018.