STATEMENT OF BASIS AND PURPOSE FOR
AMENDMENTS TO THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RULES OF PROCEDURE
7 CCR 1101-3
BASIS:  §8-47-107, C.R.S. provides the Director of the Division of Workers’ Compensation with authority to adopt and amend proper rules and regulations to govern the proceedings and hearings of the Division.   

PURPOSE:  These rule changes will update, revise or clarify current Workers’ Compensation Rules of Procedure. The rules identify, establish or update procedures, filing requirements and/or submission of relevant documents, and update income eligibility requirements for indigent claimants.  

The rules address the following subjects:

•	Claims Adjusting – Final Payment of Compensation requires final payment notices for permanent total claimants to be filed within 60 days after benefits terminate.  
•	Closure of Claims – Approval of Settlement Agreements requires pro se claimant settlement proceedings to be scheduled with the Dispute Resolution Office in the Division of Workers’ Compensation.
•	Independent Medical Examination reflects update of Income Eligibility Guidelines for indigent claimants.  

Pursuant to §24-4-103(4)(b), C.R.S., the Director finds that: 1) there is a demonstrated need for the rule amendments; 2) the proper statutory authority exists for this regulation; 3) to the extent practicable, the rules are clearly stated so that their meaning will be understood by any party required to comply with the regulation; 4) the rules do not conflict with other provisions of law; and 5) the duplicating or overlapping of the regulation is explained by the agency proposing the rules.

The rule amendments, as adopted, will be effective 20 days after publication in the Colorado Register.

Bob Summers							12/14/2006
Bob Summers							Date
Director
Division of Workers’ Compensation