Beginning July 1, 2013, changes to the Georgia Workers' Compensation Act had a direct impact on Georgia workers.  Some changes brought some much needed help to injured Georgia workers, but other changes aren't quite as beneficial.

Earlier this spring our Georgia legislators passed HB 154.  This Bill amended certain provisions of the Georgia's Workers Compensation Act, Title 34 Chapter 9.  Of significance:

1. The maximum indemnity benefit for Temporary Total Disability (TTD) increased from $500/week to $525/week for injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2013.  However, even with this increase, according to information published by the Social Security Administration, Georgia is still very near the bottom of weekly income benefits.
2. The maximum indemnity benefit for Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) increased from $334/week to $350/week for injuries occurring on or after July 1, 2013.
3. Workers' compensation insurance companies are now required to reimburse mileage within 15 days, cutting in half the time period given to insurance companies to provide this reimbursement to injured workers.
4. Two percent (2%) better interest rate on certain lump sum advances.
5. Medical benefits for non-catastrophic claims will cease at the end of 400 weeks.
6. Clarity is given on what constitutes a valid attempt to return to work for the purpose of reinstatement of indemnity benefits.

References:

1. http://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/en-US/display/20132014/HB/154