MO SB969

Requires health care providers to communicate fully with employees regarding injury and treatment (excluding permanent disability evaluations), with violation constituting a disciplinary offense under chapter 620.

Establishes filing deadlines for medical charge disputes: two years from notice if services rendered before July 1, 2013, and one year from notice if services rendered after July 1, 2013.

Prohibits hospitals and health care providers from billing employees or reporting payment failures to credit agencies once written notice of a workers' compensation injury is received, with violation allowing employees to recover actual damages plus up to $1,000 in additional damages and attorney's fees.

Allows employers to require employees to use accumulated paid leave, personal leave, or medical/sick leave for medical treatment, physical rehabilitation, or medical evaluations during work time.

Repeals provisions that prevented employer subrogation in occupational disease cases involving toxic exposure, allowing employers to recover from third parties liable for such injuries.