Missouri Bill Would Create Online Database for Workers’ Comp Claims

An online database of workers’ compensation claims would be created under legislation passed by the Missouri Senate.

Under the measure, businesses could provide a potential employee’s name and Social Security number to identify the date of workers’ compensation claims and whether the claim is open or closed.

Sponsoring Sen. Mike Cunningham, a Rogersville Republican, says the information is already available but only by written request. Supporters say the bill would help businesses control workers’ compensation costs.

A similar bill was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon last year. He cited privacy concerns and called it “an affront to the privacy of our citizens.”

Senators voted 26-7 to send the measure to the House.