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WEDNESDAY: SB 408 Clears Senate Labor as Negotiations Continue
Workers’ compensation reform again took center stage in the Senate Labor Committee as lawmakers advanced SB 408 by Brach Myers (R-Lafayette)—a much-needed effort to modernize Louisiana’s outdated medical fee schedule. The bill moved forward with strong support from stakeholders across the workers’ compensation system after months of negotiations and collaboration. LABI supported the bill’s advancement in committee, while emphasizing that important conversations are still ahead as potential amendments are discussed with Sen. Myers and stakeholders.
The hearing marked a meaningful step forward on an issue that has challenged policymakers for years. The proposal aims to improve return-to-work outcomes for injured employees, create a more predictable and transparent fee schedule, address system abuse and modernize operations through electronic billing, reporting and stronger data infrastructure.
As LABI’s Patrick Robinson testified: The progress is real—and overdue—but caution is still warranted.
An important clarification also emerged during the hearing: before any new fee schedule could take effect, Louisiana Works must develop a Louisiana-specific framework through formal rulemaking and return to both labor committees for final approval. In the meantime, key modernization efforts—including database development and electronic systems—would move forward.
As SB 408 heads to the Senate Floor for a vote next week, LABI will remain actively engaged to ensure the final product strikes the right balance—delivering meaningful reform while protecting the long-term affordability and stability of Louisiana’s workers’ compensation system.