MS HB461

Requires claimants to file medical records supporting workers' compensation claims when filing a petition to controvert, or within 60 days if unable to file initially due to statute of limitations; failure to timely file may result in claim dismissal.

Requires employers or carriers to notify employees in writing during the final 30 days of the two-year statute of limitations period if no indemnity benefits have been paid but medical treatment has been approved or paid; provides 30-day notice period after which compensation rights are barred if no application is filed.

Revises confidentiality provisions for Workers' Compensation Commission records to include First Report of Injury Forms and data compilations; allows employers and insurance carriers to inspect records of an employee's other workers' compensation claims; exempts disclosures to consumer reporting agencies under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Allows notice of insurance policy cancellations and nonrenewals to be served electronically in addition to personal service or certified mail, as long as receipt is acknowledged by the insured.

Takes effect July 1, 2020.