This bill amends the Nebraska Workers' Compensation Act by modifying the provisions regarding the commencement of compensation for disability and introducing cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for weekly income benefits. Specifically, it changes the waiting period for compensation from the first seven calendar days of disability to three days, with compensation beginning on the fourth day if the disability extends beyond this period. Additionally, if the disability lasts for two weeks or longer, compensation will be calculated from the onset of the disability. The bill also establishes a framework for cost-of-living adjustments starting in 2026, ensuring that weekly income benefits lasting longer than twelve months will be adjusted annually based on the greater of a one percent increase or the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for the Nebraska Workers' Compensation Court to determine the applicable COLA percentage each year and outlines the method for adjusting benefits accordingly. It ensures that the adjusted benefits do not exceed the maximum weekly income benefit specified in existing law. The bill repeals the original sections of the law that are being amended, thereby streamlining the legal framework governing workers' compensation in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 48-119, 48-121, 48-122.01