LA HB1023

Allows either the employer or employee to request vocational rehabilitation services from the Office of Workers' Compensation Administration (OWCA), whereas current law gives employers sole responsibility for selecting the counselor

Requires the assistant secretary to appoint a vocational rehabilitation counselor from a pre-compiled list upon request from either party

Removes the provision allowing employees to file a claim when an employer refuses to provide vocational services

Permits either the employee or employer to file a claim with OWCA to review the need for or quality of vocational services when disputes arise regarding the counselor's work

Retains expedited hearing procedures: hearing date set within 3 days of motion, hearing held 10-30 days after employer/payor notification, with no mediation or pretrial conference required