MO HB321

Limits second injury fund liability to injuries occurring before July 1, 2013; no new claims may be filed against the fund after July 1, 2015, and injuries on or after July 1, 2013 must be compensated by employers or insurers instead.

Establishes a state income tax credit equal to one-half of surcharge amounts exceeding 3 percent but less than 6 percent of workers' compensation net deposits or premiums, with the credit expiring October 31, 2019.

Requires annual actuarial studies of the second injury fund (instead of every three years) and establishes a priority payment system for fund liabilities: legal defense expenses first, then permanent total disability awards, permanent partial disability awards, and medical expenses for pre-July 1, 2013 injuries.

Authorizes a supplemental surcharge of up to 3 percent to maintain fund solvency through October 31, 2019, if regular surcharge collections are insufficient to meet current and anticipated obligations.

Requires the attorney general to reduce legal staff defending the second injury fund proportionally as the number of pending cases decreases from July 2013 levels.