Senator Peyton asked the committee to transfer five interim study proposals that would examine changes to Arkansas workers’ compensation law, saying the topic generated vigorous debate in the Senate and that stakeholders need a joint House–Senate forum to find common ground.

Why it matters: proponents and opponents disagree about how proposed changes would affect insurance rates, benefit calculations and the system’s complexity. Peyton cited an individual constituent case to illustrate how existing benefit calculations can leave seriously injured workers with significant financial hardship.

Peyton told the panel that his interim request aims to bring employers, insurers, lawyers and injured-worker advocates together during the interim: “As a committee, I’m asking that we interim study under the labor and environment subcommittee so we can let the stakeholders come and explain these nuances to you,” he said.

Committee members did not debate the underlying bills on the floor; instead the chair announced that the five items would be transferred to the Labor Subcommittee. The transfer was made without objection and will allow sponsors and stakeholders to testify and attempt to craft compromise language before a formal bill is filed.

What was decided: the five workers’ compensation interim study requests were referred to the Labor Subcommittee for further hearings and stakeholder input. No legislative changes were adopted at the meeting.

Less critical detail: Peyton said Arkansas workers’ compensation rules are complex and referenced a constituent story in which a worker earning about $100,000 a year suffered a serious on-the-job crushing injury and the family’s benefits and medical costs left them effectively bankrupt, illustrating the human stakes in technical statutory language.

Next steps: the sponsor and the committee will schedule subcommittee meetings during the interim to gather testimony, examine statute and consider draft reforms.