The "Injured Workers Transparency Act" aims to enhance the clarity and accessibility of information for injured workers filing workers' compensation claims in South Carolina. The bill introduces a new section, 42-15-45, which mandates that both the claim forms used by injured workers and the denial forms from workers' compensation insurance carriers include explicit notices regarding nonrepresentation and appeals rights. Specifically, these forms must inform claimants that the insurance carrier acts solely on behalf of the employer and does not provide legal advice, outline the appeals process, and detail the rights of the claimant, including the option to represent themselves or seek legal representation.
Additionally, the bill requires the Workers' Compensation Commission to revise the relevant forms to meet these new requirements by January 1, 2027. The act is set to take effect on the same date, ensuring that injured workers are better informed about their rights and the processes involved in their claims.
Statutes affected: 12/17/2025: 42-15-45
Latest Version: 42-15-45