Senate Bill 16-217 Summary

• Any party may request an expedited hearing on compensation reduction if the application is filed within 45 days after an employer or insurer admits liability reducing compensation, with the director scheduling the hearing within 60 days of application.

• An admission of liability reducing compensation must include a specific statement by an employer representative listing the facts on which the reduction is based.

• When an insurer or self-insured employer denies liability, claimants may request an expedited hearing on compensability if the application is filed within 45 days after the notice of contest is mailed, with expedited hearings scheduled within 60 days instead of the standard timeline.

• Any party may request an expedited hearing on whether the employer or insurer provided a required physician list if the application is filed within 45 days after the claimant provides notice of injury or, if liability is admitted, within 45 days after initial liability admission.

• When an injured employee changes primary care physicians, the previous physician continues treating until the initial visit with the new physician, and the new physician's opinion controls on work restrictions unless expressly modified.

• Effective date: July 1, 2016; applies to all workers' compensation claims regardless of filing date.