The bill amends Arkansas Code 11-9-715 to modify the attorney fees associated with workers' compensation claims, specifically addressing fees for controverted medical expenses, appeals, and changes of physicians. Key changes include the establishment of a 12.5% attorney fee for controverted medical benefits, which was previously not awarded. Additionally, the bill specifies that attorney fees for legal services regarding indemnity benefits will be split between the employer or carrier and the injured employee or their dependents, with the employer or carrier also responsible for fees related to controverted medical benefits.

Furthermore, the bill increases the maximum allowable fees for appeals, raising the cap from $500 to $2,500 for appeals to the full commission and from $1,000 to $5,000 for appeals to higher courts. It also raises the fee for legal services related to a change of physician from $200 to $1,000. The amendments will take effect for benefits related to injuries occurring on or after the effective date of the act, ensuring that the new fee structure is applied to future claims.