Coronavirus (COVID-19) -– Suspension of Certain Provisions of the Labor Code and DWC Rules Related to Workers’ Compensation

Home Bulletins Commissioner bulletins – 2020 B-0012-20 March 27, 2020 To:   All Texas workers’ compensation system participants Re:   Coronavirus (COVID-19) -– Suspension of Certain Provisions of the Labor Code and DWC Rules Related to Workers’ Compensation On March 13, 2020, Governor Greg Abbott declared COVID-19 a statewide public health disaster. The Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) is monitoring the latest developments on COVID-19 and the recommended social distancing measures as we consider the potential impact it may have on the delivery of benefits in the Texas workers’ compensation system.  This bulletin is in effect for the duration of the governor’s COVID-19 declaration, or until further notice from DWC. Governor Abbott approved DWC’s request to suspend the following requirements: work search compliance standards for supplemental income benefits under Labor Code Section 408.1415(a) and 28 Texas Administrative Code Section 130.102(d); testing, training, and application requirements for designated doctor and maximum medical improvement and impairment rating recertification under 28 TAC Sections 127.110(b)(1) and (3), 127.110(d), and 180.23; and required medical exams under 28 TAC Section 126.6(a). As this issue evolves, DWC will continue to evaluate system and agency operations. If system participants are experiencing issues, contact DWC. Please refer to the DWC COVID-19 resource page for updates and follow the Centers for Disease Control’s recommendations. For more information, please use the contact information below. Health care providers compconnection@tdi.texas.gov 800-252-7031, Option 3 Employers healthsafety@tdi.texas.gov 800-687-7080 512-804-4600 Hearings 512-804-4010 Questions from the media DWCCommunications@tdi.texas.gov Injured employees 800-252-7031, Option 1 Report a safety or health hazard 800-452-9595 safetyhotline@tdi.texas.gov All other questions DWCExternalRelations@tdi.texas.gov Cassie Brown Commissioner of Workers’ Compensation Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation For more information, contact: PropertyCasualty@tdi.texas.gov Last updated: 8/16/2022