Work comp bills advance amid uncertain future
MATT GOURAS, Associated Press
HELENA — Lawmakers intent on decreasing workers' compensation insurance rates are still grappling with how to best do so.
A plan backed by Republican leaders in the House is flying though that chamber. It is opposed by labor interests who argue it unfairly cuts their benefits while rewarding doctors and others. The governor has also made it clear he doesn't like it.
A Senate committee on Wednesday was reviewing a different compromise bill four years in the making. Labor prefers it and it has the backing of the Schweitzer administration — but doctors don't like how it reduces payments to them.
Republican state Sen. Ryan Zinke from Whitefish says the Senate needs to carefully review both bills after the House sends over its version in hopes of finding a bipartisan package.
HELENA — Lawmakers intent on decreasing workers' compensation insurance rates are still grappling with how to best do so.
A plan backed by Republican leaders in the House is flying though that chamber. It is opposed by labor interests who argue it unfairly cuts their benefits while rewarding doctors and others. The governor has also made it clear he doesn't like it.
A Senate committee on Wednesday was reviewing a different compromise bill four years in the making. Labor prefers it and it has the backing of the Schweitzer administration — but doctors don't like how it reduces payments to them.
Republican state Sen. Ryan Zinke from Whitefish says the Senate needs to carefully review both bills after the House sends over its version in hopes of finding a bipartisan package.
