NE LB522

Reduces the waiting period before workers' compensation benefits begin from 7 calendar days to 3 calendar days, with compensation starting on the 4th day of disability instead of the 8th day

Shortens the threshold for retroactive compensation from 6 weeks to 2 weeks—if disability continues for 2 or more weeks, compensation is computed from the date disability began

Establishes annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for weekly income benefits lasting longer than 12 months, beginning January 1, 2026

COLA percentage is the greater of 1% or the annual change in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, with the Nebraska Workers' Compensation Court determining the applicable rate each January 1

Adjustments are automatically applied at the end of each 12-month benefit period, rounded up to the next whole dollar, and capped at the maximum weekly income benefit specified in existing law