Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Workers Compensation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Senate moves to ‘circle’ major workers’ compensation overhaul after sponsor flags substantial restructuring
Summary
Senator Bramble described SB63 as a substantial restructuring of the state workers' compensation fund, including changes that would affect federal tax-exempt status and board appointments; the Senate voted to 'circle' the bill for further stakeholder negotiation.
Senate Bill 63, described on the floor as a significant restructuring of Utah's workers' compensation fund, was the subject of extended floor attention and was formally "circled" (postponed) for further negotiation.
Senator Bramble explained the bill would "effectively revoke that federal tax exemption" the fund historically enjoyed under 501(c)(27) and would alter governance, including board-appointment provisions. He framed the changes as necessary for the fund to remain competitive in the changing insurance marketplace and preserve historically low workers' compensation rates: "To continue with that competitive posture, this bill will be necessary."
Because of concerns raised by stakeholders about unfair competition and other technical issues, Bramble said a substitute had been prepared and that outstanding details had been pledged to be worked out with affected parties in the hallway. He moved to "circle" SB63 to allow time for those conversations; the motion to circle passed on a voice vote.
The transcript records the circling action rather than a final vote on the bill's substantive provisions. Senate staff and sponsors indicated that a substitute and negotiated language would be returned to the floor after stakeholder resolution.
