NC H991

Eliminates the two-year sunset provision on workers' compensation claims, allowing claims to commence when filed with the Commission or payment is made rather than being forever barred after two years.

Removes the two-year limitation on medical compensation duration for all workers, except when the Commission determines a substantial risk of future medical needs exists.

Provides first responders (paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, firefighters, and rescuers) with workers' compensation at 100% of average weekly wages instead of the standard 66⅔%, with no duration limit on medical compensation.

Allows first responders to automatically qualify for extended workers' compensation benefits beyond the standard 500-week limitation if 425 weeks have passed since injury and evidence shows total loss of wage-earning capacity, eliminating the requirement to prove this loss by preponderance of evidence.

Takes effect upon enactment.