Comp Change In Texas, But Whose Version?

Unless a measure to extend its life is approved, the TWCC is due to go out of existence on Sept. 1. The Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, after hearings last September, adopted recommendations for a change in the system that is at odds with a Senate proposal introduced last week. The Advisory commission findings are expected to be put forward in a House measure.

The Senate bill authored by Sen. Todd Staples, R-Palestine, calls for the six part- time voluntary commissioners to be replaced by one full-time staff commissioner.

Under the house committee's recommendations, the TWCC would be totally abolished and its duties would be split between three different agencies

Mr. Staples' measure would also allow for certified employer treatment networks treating injured workers after they were certified by the Texas Department of Insurance. The bill would also provide for an increase in workers' comp benefits. Workers could choose a doctor from within the network.

Mr. Staples' bill was introduced with support from Republican Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst who endorsed it saying it would "not only lower costs for Texas employers and create more jobs, but more importantly,?will help return our injured workers to health, and work."

Republicans hold majorities in both the House and Senate and Joseph Woods the lobbyist for the Property Casualty Insures Association of America in Texas said insurers have "high hopes for getting something passed."

Texas is currently the only state in the nation where it is not mandatory for employers to purchase comp insurance. Those that do not are have no shield and are subject to legal action by injured employees.

Because rising medical costs have boosted comp insurance rates in the state the number of insured employers has lately been declining.

The House bill on the TWCC's fate is expected shortly from State Rep. Burt Solomons, R-Carrollton, who heads the Sunset Commission. Mr. Quick said Mr. Solomons said some time ago that he hoped to have the bill introduced last month.

The role of the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission (TWCC) is to administer and regulate the workers' compensation industry (employers, employees, carriers, attorneys and health care providers).

TWCC provides for the adjudication of disputes, the regulation of benefit delivery and medical cost containment initiatives. The agency also provides accident prevention training and services and investigates fraud in the system.