The bill amends the Worker's Disability Compensation Act of 1969 by introducing a new section, 224, which establishes mediation requirements for claims for benefits under specific circumstances. Mediation is mandated if the claim pertains to a definite period of time with the employee having returned to work, is for medical benefits only, the claimant is unrepresented by an attorney, or if the agency determines mediation is appropriate. The agency is responsible for scheduling mediation conferences and providing necessary information to the employee regarding their rights and potential benefits. If mediation does not resolve the claim, it will be referred to the small claims division for claims of $10,000 or less, or assigned to a magistrate for claims exceeding that amount.

Additionally, the bill modifies section 847 by changing the language regarding the setting of cases for mediation or hearing from "shall" to "must," and clarifies that a magistrate's written opinion must be included in the record of the hearing. It also specifies that a party's willful failure to comply with the mediation requirements will prohibit them from proceeding under the act. These changes aim to streamline the mediation process and ensure that all parties are adequately informed and prepared for mediation conferences.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 418.847