Oklahoma lawmakers recently passed massive changes to the way the Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court will be run and staffed. The question now is whether Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry will sign the legislation. One of the key components to the new measures is that Senate confirmation is required for all judges, a measure vetoed by Henry during the last session.

Highlights of OK's Workers' Compensation Court Legislation

• The number of judges sitting on the Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court will be reduced from 10 to eight. Of the judges, five would be seated in Oklahoma City, with the other three in Tulsa. The reduction in judges will be accomplished by not filling the next two seats that become vacant.
• Each judge would have a minimum of five years experience in the workers' compensation field, a requirement that would hopefully lead to more experienced, qualified judges.
• Senate confirmation would be required. This will either lead to a court less influenced by politics (as supporters claim happens when a judge is appointed directly by the sitting governor), or could lead to special interest groups gaining influence (as detractors say will happen when the Senate is required to confirm nominees).
• Judges would be limited to a single eight-year term. Rather than having a governor reappoint a judge, supporters of the bill say limiting each judge to a single term will free each judge from feeling "beholden" to the sitting governor and should lead to a court less likely to radically change in political makeup.
• The court would be required to follow medical treatment recommendations by the Physician Advisory Committee.

Supporters of the bill see it as both a money saver and a means to expedite claims and get workers back to work in a more timely manner. Rep. Dan Sullivan (R-Tulsa), author of the House measure, says his bill could save up to $120 million, which would lower workers' compensation insurance, making the state more attractive for prospective employers. Sullivan, who worked with Gov. Henry on the legislation, expects it to be signed. "I think he wants workers' compensation reform on his watch," Sullivan says.

Others feel the Senate confirmation requirement will simply lead to political wrangling and partisan bickering. Rep. Mike Shelton (D-Oklahoma City) wants to keep "this Washington-style of politics out of our courts."

Speak to an Attorney

If you have questions about Oklahoma's new legislation and how it may affect your workers' compensation claim, speak to a personal injury attorney in your area. Workers' compensation matters can be complex and time consuming, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced attorney to help you navigate the process and help you look out for your legal rights and best interests.