This bill aims to provide supplemental benefits to workers' compensation recipients who became totally and permanently disabled or whose dependents are affected by workplace injuries or deaths occurring after December 31, 1979. Starting July 1, 2025, eligible individuals will receive weekly supplemental benefits from the Second Injury Fund if their initially-awarded weekly benefits are less than the total amount that would include these supplemental benefits. The bill outlines a gradual implementation of these benefits, with 33 1/3% of the base amount paid in fiscal year 2026, 66 2/3% in fiscal year 2027, and 100% in fiscal year 2028 and beyond. The funding for these supplemental benefits will be sourced from the General Fund, and the bill specifies that certain reductions will apply to ensure compliance with federal Social Security disability benefit regulations.

Additionally, the bill establishes a notification requirement for insurance carriers and self-insured employers, mandating that they inform the Division of Workers Compensation within 60 days if supplemental benefits are necessary. If they fail to do so, the responsibility for payment will shift from the Second Injury Fund to the employer until proper notification is provided. The bill maintains existing provisions regarding the reduction of benefits based on Social Security disability payments and ensures that no supplemental benefits will be paid if they are calculated to be less than $5 per week. Overall, this legislation seeks to enhance the financial support for workers affected by workplace injuries while ensuring that the funding mechanisms and existing laws remain intact.