(Feb. 1, 2024) – Today, the Joint Senate and House Commerce Committees, chaired by Senator Renee Erickson (R-Wichita), held an informational hearing on workers compensation, outlined in Senate Bill 430.

Under SB 430, the cap on benefits would include a permanent total disability cap increase from $300,000 to $500,000. For partial disability an increase from $155,000 to $400,000. For temporary total disability from $130,000 to $225,000, for temporary partial disability from $130,000 to $225,000. For functional impairment only $75,000 to $100,000. The bill changes hearing timelines from 20 days to 30 days. Changes to future minimum treatment provisions are included, as well as changes to reductions in benefits based on retirement, social security and corresponding with no offset for social security.

Proponents included:

• Tony Anderson, Kansas Chamber, Kansas National Federation of Independent Business – Anderson discussed how the bill was developed. They began meeting with labor and industry attorneys. They have worked together to negotiate on the topic.
• Jeff Cooper, Cooper Law Office

Conferees urged the committees to make no changes. There was no opponent or neutral testimony. The committee indicated the bill would go before the Senate.