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 dependency status of spouses and children, establishing that a spouse living with the employee at the time of death is presumed wholly dependent for 208 weeks, and children under 18 are also presumed wholly dependent.

Additionally, the bill increases the maximum allowable funeral and burial expenses from $6,000 to $12,000. It introduces provisions for injured employees who have been receiving less than 50% of the state average weekly wage, allowing them to petition for an increase in benefits after two years of continuous disability. The bill also specifies that the minimum weekly benefit for wholly dependent individuals is set at 50% of the state average weekly wage, while the minimum for certain losses is 25%. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the support provided to dependents and injured workers under the existing compensation framework.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 418.321