At its meeting in San Francisco on November 23rd the Executive Committee of the National Conference of Insurance Legislators endorsed S 2731, bi-partisan legislation introduced by Senators Bill Nelson (FLA) and Rob Portman (OH). The bill is a revised version of companion bi-partisan legislation (HR 1982) introduced in the House by Representatives Reichert (WA) and Thompson (CA).
Both bills are broadly supported by the coalition for WC MSA reform coordinated by UWC. Revisions to the earlier proposals were incorporated into S 2731. A survey of representatives of injured workers participating in settlements shows that the optional direct WC MSA payment provision would increase revenue to Medicare while reducing administrative cost and confusion for injured workers.
The NCOIL endorsement adds yet another indication of broad based bi-partisan support for the legislation.
We are working with congressional staff to quantify the bottom line fiscal impact of S 2731 and with the sponsors to seek inclusion of S 2731 in legislation to be voted on this year.
