Governor’s Workers’ Comp Plan Makes It’s Way Through the House

Governor Bill Haslam’s workers’ compensation reform successfully passed in the House and the Senate. Image Courtesy Iowa Workers Comp

A proposal that could make it harder for Tennesseans to get paid after they’re hurt on the job will soon become law.

Governor Bill Haslam’s plan to revamp workers’ compensation in Tennessee was one of his top priorities this session and supported by businesses across the state. Republicans claim the previous system was the cause of some small business closures.

House Minority Leader Craig Fitzhugh led a futile attempt by Democrats to stop or amend the bill.

“This thing’s gonna pass – we know that, but read this thing sometime. I’m gonna respectfully say, this is not good legislation,” Fitzhugh said.

Instead of giving employees the benefit of the doubt if they are hurt at work, the law will soon require only that they’re treated fairly.

Also, instead of settling workers’ comp disputes in court, the proposal forms a special government agency to mediate. The governor will appoint the administrator.

The House voted along party lines Thursday. The Senate approved the bill last month with only one Democrat voting against it.

Chelsea Mihelich