Bill Positions

Bill Number: SB 609

Bill Title: Workers' Compensation - Temporary Total Disability Benefits - Credit

Bill Sponsor(s): Sen. Kittleman

Subject: Workers' Compensation

Committee: FIN

Bill Summary: This bill would have provided a credit to employers or its insurer for compensation paid to an employee for temporary total disability benefits if treatment is delayed or suspended.

History: In 2009 this bill passed the Senate, but died in the House Rules & Executive Nominations Committee. In 2010 this bill passed the Senate, but died in the House Economic Matters Committee without a vote.

Chamber Position: Support

Position Summary: The bill would have provided that employers or insurers continue paying the lost wages, but would have given them a credit for the benefits paid during the delay. The bill balanced the worker's need for uninterrupted benefits during the delay against the insurer's position that they are not responsible for the delay because it is for an unrelated condition. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber supported this bill.

Position Statement: To view the Chamber's complete position statement, click here (pdf).

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.