National – Origami Risk released its 3rd annual State of Risk report. The report surveyed 240 organizations across more than 20 industries.
Last week Workers’ Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) released the Hospital Payment Index: Interstate Variations and Policy Analysis Study 13th edition. The study analyzed hospital payments for common workers’ compensation surgeries in 36 states. According to the survey, WCRI found that payments for outpatient procedures in states with a percentage of charge-based fee regulations were 65% to 196% higher than the median of states with fixed schedules in 2022.
Connecticut – This week HB 5129 was transmitted to the Secretary of State. As a reminder, HB 5129 aims to extend telehealth provisions adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic until June 30, 2027.
Georgia – Governor Brain Kemp signed HB 451 which will be effective January 1, 2025. As a reminder, HB 451 would require that after a qualifying diagnosis of occupational PTSD, first responders have financial resources readily available to them, including identifying a mental healthcare provider of their choice and beginning treatment, as well as having additional financial resources available for the continuation of treatment, pursuit of recovery, and return to service.
Louisiana – Two bills were scheduled for floor debate on May 28th:
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- SB 44, as a reminder, if passed SB 44 would not allow pharmacy benefits managers to reimburse a pharmacy or pharmacists in LA an amount less than the acquisition cost for the covered drug.
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- HB 579, as a reminder, would not allow pharmacy benefits managers to reimburse a pharmacy or pharmacists in LA an amount less than the acquisition cost for the covered drug.
New Hampshire – HB 1633 passed the Senate. If signed into law, HB 1633 aims to create a framework for legalizing and regulating cannabis. The bill states adults over 21 would be able to possess up to four ounces of marijuana in plant form, ten grams of concentrated cannabis, and no more than 2,000 milligrams of THC cannabis products.
Pennsylvania – HB 1632 was referred to the Senate Labor and Industry Committee. As a reminder, HB 1632 was introduced in March and passed the House early May. If passed, HB 1632 would allow firefighters, emergency medical service personnel, and police officers to file workers compensation claims for Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI).
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