The bill establishes a pilot program focused on improving treatment and research for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among workers, particularly in high-risk occupations. It amends existing laws to allocate funding from the medical aid fund for workplace safety and health projects, mandating that at least 25% of the funds be used for innovative return-to-work initiatives and 50% for injury prevention projects. The legislation also introduces funding for grants or contracts aimed at workplace behavioral health programs, including suicide prevention and mental health training. Additionally, it establishes a healthcare provider network to ensure high-quality medical treatment for injured workers, with provisions for monitoring provider quality and developing minimum standards.

Furthermore, the bill includes a pilot program to streamline administrative requirements related to workers' compensation claims, defining "administrative requirements" to encompass various processes imposed on workers and providers. Self-insurers in the pilot program must report on claims as requested, and the program will take precedence over conflicting statutes. The director is tasked with providing legislative committees with recommendations by July 1, 2030, regarding the pilot program's future, while the Department of Labor and Industries is authorized to adopt necessary rules for implementation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with certain sections expiring on June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 49.17.243, 51.36.010, 51.36.060
Substitute bill: 49.17.243, 51.36.010, 51.36.060
Bill as passed Legislature: 49.17.243, 51.36.010, 51.36.060