The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to modernize definitions and provisions related to workers' compensation, disability, and electronic communications. It introduces a new definition of "electronic means" to encompass various technological capabilities and redefines "disability" to refer specifically to the loss of actual earnings rather than capacity. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "compensable injury" to include mental health conditions that are physiologically caused by physical injuries, provided that the physical injury is at least fifty percent responsible for the condition. It also clarifies that emotional circumstances related to work-related injuries can be contributing factors.

Further changes include the establishment of a decision review office independent of the claims department to assist injured employees, the introduction of electronic communication methods for notices and decisions, and a revised process for reconsideration of decisions. Financial amendments raise the total death benefit cap from $300,000 to $400,000 and increase the maximum annual scholarship amount from $10,000 to $12,500, with a total cap of $500,000 for scholarships. The bill specifies that certain provisions will apply to claims filed on or after August 1, 2025, while others will apply to all claims regardless of the injury date, aiming to enhance clarity and support for injured employees and their families.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 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
Adopted by the House Industry, Business and Labor Committee: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1
Enrollment: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1
INTRODUCED: 65-01-02, 65-01-16, 65-02-27, 65-05-17, 65-05-20.1