This bill amends the qualifications for hearing officers within the Department of Labor, specifically for those handling workers' compensation cases. It mandates that hearing officers must be attorneys in good standing with relevant experience in administrative adjudicative hearings and the application of law to facts. The bill also changes the language regarding the assurance of qualifications from "insure" to "ensure," emphasizing the need for qualified individuals in these roles. Additionally, it removes the previous phrasing regarding salary, indicating that the salary will be commensurate with the responsibilities and experience required.

Furthermore, the bill outlines additional responsibilities for the commissioner, including the development of a code of ethics for hearings and hearing officers, as well as the requirement for hearing officers to complete at least 15 hours of continuing education annually, along with an additional 15 hours of training with the attorney general's staff. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the professionalism and effectiveness of hearing officers in the workers' compensation system. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 281-A:42-b
SB569 text: 281-A:42-b