Iowa comp reform bill heads to governor

The Iowa Senate passed a revised workers compensation reform bill that includes stricter rules about the burden of proof for intoxication resulting in a workplace injury and disability resulting from shoulder injuries.

The Senate voted 29-21 to pass the bill Monday. House File 518 passed the Iowa House of Representatives March 16 after the original bill was amended to remove language limiting benefits for older workers with permanent disabilities.

The legislation is awaiting signature from Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad. An earlier version of the bill said it would be effective immediately if signed into law.

Steve Schneider, Deerfield, Illinois-based vice president for state affairs with the American Insurance Association, said the trade group is "respectfully urging” Gov. Branstad to sign the bill since it is expected to reduce workers comp costs for employers.

"It is a collection of modest and common sense reforms," Mr. Schneider said in a statement Tuesday.