The Florida Department of Administrative Hearings has conducted workshops and public hearings in recent months on proposed changes to the state's workers' compensation rules of procedure. Five major issues have been under discussion:

1. Adjusters at Mediations

The primary rule change that will impact adjusters handling claims is Rule 6.110(5)(a), which allows a party to appear at the mediation via telephone. The rule currently allows a telephone appearance if approved in advance by the mediator. The proposed change will still require pre-approval by the mediator, but the party will have to stipulate in advance, in writing, to be bound by his attorney's signature on the mediation report.