SB 156 Summary

• Extends the time period for determining reemployment benefits eligibility from 45 to 90 consecutive days of total inability to work, with employer notification required by the 100th day.

• Increases maximum reemployment plan cost from $13,300 to $19,300, adjusted annually on January 1 based on the Anchorage consumer price index.

• Extends reemployment benefits duration from one year to two years from the date of plan approval and allows employees to waive the remunerative employability requirement if no plan meeting cost and time limits can be developed.

• Creates a job dislocation benefit option allowing eligible employees to receive $6,500 to $17,500 (depending on permanent partial impairment rating) instead of pursuing reemployment benefits, selectable within 150 days of eligibility determination.

• Establishes new procedures for plan approval, reconsideration, and board review with specific timeframes, and allows the administrator to suspend the reemployment process for unusual circumstances or medical condition changes.