The bill amends Section 72-433 of the Idaho Code, which pertains to the medical examinations of injured employees under worker's compensation. It stipulates that employees must submit to medical examinations requested by their employer or ordered by the commission during their period of disability. The bill outlines the reimbursement process for employees, including travel expenses and loss of wages, while also specifying that employees will not be reimbursed for the first fifteen miles of any round trip. Additionally, it grants employees the right to have their own physician present during examinations and allows for audio recordings of the examinations, with video recordings permitted only with mutual consent. Notably, the bill introduces a provision that exempts psychological, neuropsychological, or psychiatric examinations from these recording rights.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that if an injured employee is sent to a facility for physical or vocational rehabilitation, the employer must provide reasonable travel accommodations and daily subsistence for outpatients. The reimbursement for transportation expenses follows the same guidelines as previously mentioned, including the fifteen-mile exemption. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 72-433