CT HB06666

Allows workers' compensation claimants to sue insurers or third-party administrators for damages including economic losses, pain and suffering, and attorney's fees if they unreasonably contest liability or unreasonably delay payments or adjustments.

Permits claimants to bring civil actions before exhausting administrative remedies, though any awards from the commissioner are credited against damages awarded in court.

Establishes a 35-day presumption that payments are unduly delayed unless the employer or insurer files a notice to contest the claim within that timeframe.

Expands grounds for awarding attorney's fees to include cases where claimants prevail and the commissioner finds the employer or insurer unreasonably contested liability.

Effective January 1, 2018, with amendments to sections 31-300 and 31-284 of the general statutes.