MD SB227

Workers' Compensation Commission must make the Uninsured Employers' Fund a party to any claim filed against an uninsured employer and notify both the Fund and covered employee of documentation requirements.

Covered employees or dependents may apply directly to the Fund Director for payment if an employer defaults on an award, provided they demanded payment from the employer at least 15 days before application.

The Fund gains authority to raise defenses to claims, implead other employers and insurers, request hearings on compensability, and must pay any additional awards without requiring new applications once initial payment begins.

Commission may offset permanent partial disability benefits for any benefits paid by the Uninsured Employers' Fund that were also paid by the employer, preventing duplicate payments.

Effective date: July 1, 2025.