Oklahoma House Defeats Alternative Workers’ Comp Measure

The Oklahoma House has defeated workers’ compensation legislation that would have allowed large employers to opt-out of the state’s workers’ compensation system.

In a bipartisan vote on April 25, House members voted 50-42 against the bill. Its author, Rep. Fred Jordan of Jenks, held it over for reconsideration, meaning it could be brought back up for another vote.

The measure would have authorized an employer to be exempted from Oklahoma’s Workers’ Compensation Code as long as it met certain requirements. The employer must adopt a written benefit plan that provides for payment for any injury, disability or death caused by an occupational injury.

Supporters said it would help reduce workers compensation costs for qualifying employers. Opponents said it would reduce benefits for injured workers and would not reduce costs.