This bill amends subsection 5 of section 65-05-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to benefits for adaptations to real estate and motor vehicles for injured employees. The bill increases the financial limits for modifications: it raises the cap for real estate adaptations from seventy-five thousand dollars to one hundred fifty thousand dollars and for motor vehicle adaptations from one hundred fifty thousand dollars to two hundred thousand dollars. These amounts are applicable for the life of the injured employee, regardless of any subsequent claims. Additionally, the bill clarifies that benefits can also be provided to employees who have not sustained a catastrophic injury if deemed cost-effective and appropriate due to exceptional circumstances.

The bill introduces new language specifying that the organization may modify real estate and provide adaptations to motor vehicles, with specific provisions for employees who have sustained catastrophic injuries. It also establishes that the organization cannot purchase real estate or cover insurance and maintenance costs for motor vehicles. The changes aim to enhance support for injured employees by allowing for more substantial financial assistance for necessary adaptations, thereby improving their quality of life. The Act applies to qualifying expenditures made on or after its effective date.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 65-05-07
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Schreiber-Beck: 65-05-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 65-05-07
Adopted by the House Industry, Business and Labor Committee: 65-05-07
SECOND ENGROSSMENT: 65-05-07
Enrollment: 65-05-07