MS HB1396

Creates a Division of Workers' Compensation within the Office of the Governor, transferring all powers and assets of the Workers' Compensation Commission effective June 30, 2013.

Establishes administrative law judges as the primary adjudicators of workers' compensation claims, with direct appeals to the Mississippi Supreme Court (eliminating the previous appellate process through the full commission).

Replaces the three-member commission structure with a single Executive Director appointed by the Governor for a four-year term with Senate consent, requiring at least five years of experience managing private or public entities.

Creates an advisory committee composed of representatives from the Workers' Compensation Section of the Mississippi Bar Association and the Mississippi Trial Lawyers Association to review and propose amendments to division rules and regulations annually.

Allows the Executive Director to appoint up to eight administrative judges from a list nominated by the Workers' Compensation Section of the Mississippi Bar Association, with minimum of three years' law practice experience required; takes effect July 1, 2013.