The proposed bill seeks to amend the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Law to allow for additional wage loss benefits for employees who have suffered scheduled injuries. Specifically, it modifies Arkansas Code 11-9-521(g) by removing the previous limitation that prevented employees from receiving permanent partial disability benefits exceeding their percentage of permanent physical impairment.

The new language inserted into the law enables the Workers' Compensation Commission to consider various factors beyond just the percentage of permanent physical impairment when evaluating claims for permanent partial disability benefits. These factors include the employee's age, education, work experience, and other relevant aspects that may influence their future earning capacity. This change aims to provide a more comprehensive assessment of an employee's situation following a scheduled injury.

Statutes affected:
SB 286: 11-9-521(g)