Utah Senate advances series of workers—compensation bills after extended debate; several measures pass

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate spent much of its floor session on Feb. 22 considering a suite of workers' compensation and related insurance bills, adopting amendments and approving several measures by roll call after extended debate.

Senators gave final passage to Senate Bill 117, a workers' compensation safety measure, on a unanimous show of hands and a formal roll call that recorded 27 ayes and one absence. Senator Bueller, who spoke briefly on the measure, called for the question before the vote.

Several other bills moved forward. Senate Bill 125, governing settlement procedures for workers' compensation claims, failed to win a proposed amendment aimed at added protections for lump-sum recipients and then passed unanimously on roll call (29-0). Senate Bill 126, which clarifies coverage rules including language for independent contractors and certification by subcontractors, was amended to address trucking-industry concerns and passed on roll call (27-0 with two absent). Senate Bill 127 had its title amended to replace the word "physicians" with "provider," was advanced under suspension of the rules and passed on final passage (21 ayes, 8 nays, 1 absent).

Not all measures concluded. Senator David Steele brought Senate Bill 123, addressing permanent total disability claims,…