The bill, S.B. No. 423, amends the Texas Labor Code to allow for certain contested case hearings within the workers' compensation system to be conducted via remote communication, such as telephone or videoconference, upon mutual agreement of the parties involved. Specifically, it modifies Section 410.005(a) to include a new provision, Section 410.0055, which stipulates that the division shall conduct these hearings remotely if both parties consent. The commissioner is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement this section, including updating notices for hearings and providing system requirements and instructional materials in both English and Spanish.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the new remote hearing provisions apply only to contested case hearings requested on or after the effective date of the Act, while those requested prior will continue to be governed by the existing law. The Act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Labor Code 410.005 (Labor Code 410)