The bill amends the Worker's Disability Compensation Act of 1969, specifically updating sections 321, 331, 335, 345, and 356. Key changes include the adjustment of compensation rates for dependents of deceased employees, where the weekly payment is set at 80% of the employee's after-tax average weekly wage for a period of 500 weeks, with provisions for continued payments if dependents are under 21 years of age. The bill also clarifies the definitions of dependency, establishing that a spouse living with the employee at the time of death is presumed to be wholly dependent for 208 weeks, and outlines how benefits are to be divided among dependents.

Additionally, the bill increases the maximum allowable funeral and burial expenses from $6,000 to $12,000, and it introduces provisions for injured employees who have been receiving less than 50% of the state average weekly wage to petition for an increase in benefits after two years of continuous disability. The adjustments to compensation rates are designed to reflect the employee's earning capacity based on various factors, including age and experience. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the support provided to dependents and injured workers under the compensation act.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 418.321