HB423 Summary

• Clarifies the process for selecting certified vocational rehabilitation providers, requiring injured employees to select a provider within 30 days of referral, with the employer selecting one if the employee fails to do so.

• Requires vocational rehabilitation providers to automatically approve services for injured employees when the provider determines those services will likely be needed for the employee to return to suitable gainful employment.

• Establishes a 90-day deadline for providers to file an employee's vocational rehabilitation plan after submitting an initial evaluation report, unless all parties agree to extend the deadline.

• Maintains that enrollment in vocational rehabilitation is voluntary and requires employee approval, and preserves employee eligibility for other workers' compensation benefits during rehabilitation.

• Takes effect July 1, 2050.