NC H237

North Carolina Rate Bureau required to share workers' compensation insurance coverage status information with both the Department of Labor and North Carolina Industrial Commission to track employer compliance.

Rate Bureau granted immunity from civil liability for releasing information to the Industrial Commission, even if information is erroneous, if acting in good faith without malicious intent.

Industrial Commission granted authority to communicate directly with health care providers about injured workers' conditions, with requirements for employee notice and opportunity to participate in oral communications.

Employer permitted to submit additional medical information to health care providers with 10-business-day employee notice period; employee may request protective order to prevent communication if timely objection filed.

Joint Legislative Committee on Workers' Compensation Insurance Coverage Compliance and Fraud Prevention created with 8 members (4 Senate, 4 House) to review statutes and recommend improvements for preventing fraud and ensuring employer compliance; Committee to report to 2013 General Assembly.