HB1823 Summary

• Amends Arkansas Code § 11-9-715 to regulate attorney fee awards in workers' compensation cases, requiring Workers' Compensation Commission approval for all legal service fees.

• Establishes attorney fees at 25% of indemnity benefits compensation awarded to injured employees or deceased employee dependents, excluding medical benefits except as specified.

• Authorizes commission to award 20% attorney fees on medical benefits, not to exceed $2,500, to be paid solely by the employer or carrier.

• Clarifies fee payment split in controverted claims: one-half paid by employer/carrier and one-half by injured employee or dependents from compensation awarded.

• Permits medical providers to voluntarily contract with claimant attorneys to recover disputed bills at a reasonable collection fee.