VT S0173

Injured workers may initiate vocational rehabilitation services with their chosen provider if the employer fails to assign a provider within 90 days of the worker being out of work

Removes requirements for initial vocational rehabilitation screenings, instead requiring direct referral to a Vermont-certified vocational rehabilitation counselor for workers out of work more than 90 days

Creates a full-time State Mediator position within the Vermont Labor Relations Board to provide free mediation services to public and private sector employers and collective bargaining units during impasse

Appropriates $115,000 from the General Fund in fiscal year 2027 for the mediator position's salary and benefits

Establishes a seven-member Vocational Rehabilitation Working Group to recommend system improvements, with a report due to the legislature by December 15, 2026