Colorado Workers’ Compensation Legislation Updates

Aug 24 2023

Colorado Workers’ Comp Legislation

Any employee or employers seeking to find out more about the Colorado workers’ comp legislation can review this document to keep abreast of any rule changes to the act. Workers’ compensation is designed to protect both the employer and employee. There are a host of new policies and procedures to digest, which include everything from compensation insurance to rules regarding individuals with a work-related injury.

If you’re an employee, there are certain injuries and issues that can be dealt with in-house, such as minor physical injuries like cuts and bruises. If the injury is more serious than a minor injury, the insurance company does not take responsibility or you have extended time off work, you need to enlist the services of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. Continue reading if you’d like to find out more about the updates, how mental health fits into the workplace and when to hire a lawyer for compensation coverage.

New Legislative Updates of Procedures and Amendments

Recently, the General Assembly has made changes to two bills in Colorado that affect worker’s compensation. A few notable changes include:

  • Compensation for mental health issues is extended from 12 to 36 weeks.
  • Post-MMI medical benefits are no longer limited to specific treatments.
  • If a prosthetic device is damaged, the company must replace the device.
  • All medical claims must be reported to the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation within 180 days of the event.
  • If an expensive prescription drug is required, a high-equivalent, generic one can be used instead.
  • If a minor is injured, the minor may make a claim for a civil wrong resulting in injury, provided they’re engaging in work that’s prohibited by Article 12 of the bill.

Mental Health and Workers’ Comp

In the past, mental health issues in the workplace were largely ignored. Businesses are now expanding their coverage to include treatment of mental health issues. Mental health issues are not always as readily apparent as physical injuries. Therefore, it is imperative that you contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to help navigate the workers’ compensation and help you get the mental health treatment and financial compensation that you are entitled to.

When to Hire a Lawyer for Colorado Workers’ Comp Legislation

The answer is “as soon as you are injured.” The reasons are vast as to why to hire an attorney, however, deadlines are in place that can greatly impact the outcome of your injury and the financial payout you received. You need to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to inform you of these deadlines.

  • You should hire a lawyer for multiple reasons:
  • Your injury prevents you from being able to return to work.
  • Your company or the insurance company denies your claim.
  • The payout is too little.
  • Medical treatment has been denied.
  • The insurance company wants to settle your claim.