NY A05299

Allows injured employees to receive treatment from licensed clinical social workers (as defined in Education Law Article 154) upon referral by an authorized physician, with services limited to the scope of licensed clinical social work practice.

Requires licensed clinical social workers seeking authorization to apply through a Clinical Social Work Practice Committee and agree not to privately treat workers' compensation claimants if removed from the authorized list.

Establishes a fee schedule for clinical social work services to be set by the Chair of the Workers' Compensation Board, with fees payable only by employers (not claimants), and disputes over bill amounts resolved by the Clinical Social Work Practice Committee.

Creates a Clinical Social Work Practice Committee composed of two licensed clinical social workers and one licensed physician to investigate misconduct, hear charges, and make recommendations on authorizations and disciplinary matters.

Takes effect 180 days after enactment, with authorization for the Workers' Compensation Board to promulgate necessary rules and regulations immediately upon passage.