Worker’s Compensation Bill Introduced in Senate

The Senate Committee on Labor and Regulatory Reform voted in December to introduce SB 665, legislation proposed by the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Advisory Council (WCAC). The bill is the biennial agreement between management and labor for reform in the worker’s compensation system.

Historically, once a WCAC approved bill was introduced, it went through a simple process of committee review and quick passage in the legislature.  However, with more controversial items included – specifically a health service fee schedule – the bill’s fate is unknown.

Although the committee approved introduction of the bill, it will face a difficult path to approval in the legislature. According to Wispolitics, Committee Chair Sen. Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) is not interested in holding a committee vote on the bill. The bill does not have an Assembly author, and Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) has also indicated the bill is unlikely to move in his chamber this session.

Wisconsin businesses continue to urge legislators’ support for the worker’s compensation reforms and implementation of a medical fee schedule, which they say will lower costs and align Wisconsin policy with other states.