House Bill No. by Representative Echols aims to amend the existing workers' compensation law by establishing a medical fee reimbursement schedule. The bill mandates that the assistant secretary of the office of workers' compensation administration create and implement this schedule for various medical services, treatments, and supplies. The reimbursement rates must be reasonable when compared to those of surrounding states with similar characteristics, and adjustments to the schedule will be made annually based on collected data. The initial reimbursement schedule is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific responsibilities for the assistant secretary, including examining administrative relief for healthcare providers, reducing paperwork, and expanding access to patient care. It also emphasizes the importance of including external stakeholders in the reimbursement calculation process. Furthermore, the office of workers' compensation administration is required to report quarterly to the House and Senate committees on labor and industrial relations, ensuring legislative oversight of the reimbursement process. The proposed changes include the deletion of certain phrases from the current law and the insertion of new provisions to enhance the structure and accountability of the reimbursement schedule.

Statutes affected:
HB117 Original: 23:2(A)