This bill authorizes the appointment of a benefits administrator to receive payments on behalf of minor children or incompetent persons in the context of workers' compensation claims. It amends Section 39-71-742 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to specify that payments due to a child under 18 or an adjudged incompetent person can be made to the parent, appointed guardian, appointed conservator, or the appointed benefits administrator. Additionally, the bill defines "benefits administrator" as a person appointed by the workers' compensation judge to pursue benefits or receive payments on behalf of these individuals.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 39-71-2905, allowing claimants, insurers, or the uninsured employers' fund to petition the workers' compensation judge for the appointment of a benefits administrator without needing to satisfy prior dispute resolution requirements. This change aims to streamline the process for ensuring that payments are appropriately managed for those unable to do so themselves. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_1(1): 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_1(2): 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_1(3): 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_1(4): 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_1: 39-71-742, 39-71-2905
SB0338_X: 39-71-742, 39-71-2905