This bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to modernize definitions and provisions related to workplace injuries and employee benefits. Key updates include a revised definition of "disability," which now refers to "loss of actual earnings" instead of "capacity," and the introduction of a new term, "electronic means," to cover various technological communication methods. The bill also clarifies that mental or psychological conditions can be considered compensable injuries if they are physiologically caused by a physical injury, which must be at least fifty percent of the cause. Additionally, it expands the definition of "employee" to include various worker categories while excluding independent contractors and those engaged in illegal activities.

Moreover, the bill enhances the claims process by establishing a decision review office independent of the claims department, ensuring confidentiality for injured employees in disputes. It increases the cap on total death benefits from $300,000 to $400,000, with a biennial increase of $10,000, and raises the maximum scholarship amount from $10,000 to $12,500 per year for eligible applicants. These changes aim to improve support for injured employees and their families while streamlining administrative processes. The amendments will take effect for claims filed on or after August 1, 2025, with certain provisions applicable to all claims regardless of the injury date.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1
Adopted by the Senate Industry and Business Committee: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1
PREFILED: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1