Lawmakers OK bill changing workers’ comp system

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) – Kentucky lawmakers have wrapped up work on a bill that makes the biggest changes to the workers’ compensation system in more than 20 years.

The measure cleared the House on a 55-39 vote and now goes to Gov. Matt Bevin.

The legislation is backed by business groups but opposed by organized labor.

A key part of the bill would put time limits on benefits for some injured workers.

The proposed 15-year benefit cap from the date of injury would apply to certain workers filing claims for permanent, partial disability because of on-the-job injuries.

Many of those workers eventually return to the labor force. Currently, they are entitled to medical benefits for the duration of the disability. The bill would allow those injured workers to make recertification filings that, if approved, would let them continue receiving medical benefits.