HB 1073 Summary

• Creates a pilot program allowing Workforce Safety and Insurance to test alternative dispute resolution methods for resolving claims and appeals, with up to $50,000 per biennium appropriated for program expenses.

• Requires health care providers to submit medical bills and supporting documentation to the organization electronically no later than July 1, 2021.

• Expands licensing requirements for utilization review professionals to include allied health care professionals with current licenses from any state licensing agency within the United States, not just North Dakota-licensed psychologists and physicians.

• Modifies disability benefit calculations to account for wage changes at recurrence of disability, requiring benefits to be based on the higher of the current wage or pre-injury wage when recurrence occurs after three or more consecutive months of employment.

• Strengthens medical noncompliance provisions by allowing the organization to discontinue disability and vocational rehabilitation benefits if an injured employee is medically noncompliant without good cause, with a 60-day compliance period required before reinstatement.