HB 2312-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Finds that a competitive disadvantage exists in the construction industry because of a disparity in workers' compensation coverage requirements among the states.

     Declares an intent of this act is:  (1) To provide an equal footing for all contractors bidding on or engaging in construction work in this state;

     (2) to ensure that all workers injured while in the course of employment in this state receive the benefits to which they are entitled; and

     (3) to not create disincentives for employers to hire workers in this state.

     Provides that an employer not domiciled in this state who is employing workers in this state in work for which the employer must be registered under chapter 18.27 RCW or licensed under chapter 19.28 RCW, or prequalified under RCW 47.28.070, must secure the payment of compensation under this title by:  (1) Insuring the employer's workers' compensation obligation under this title with the department;

     (2) being qualified as a self-insurer under this title; or

     (3) for employers domiciled in a state or province of Canada, filing with the department a certificate of coverage issued by the agency that administers the workers compensation law in the employer's state or province of domicile certifying that the employer has secured the payment of compensation under the other state's or province's workers' compensation law.

     Directs the workers' compensation advisory committee established under RCW 51.04.110 to appoint a subcommittee to review this act and related issues, as determined by the committee, and report its findings and recommendations to the committee.  The committee shall make a final report to the department of labor and industries by December 15, 1998.  The department shall report on the study to the appropriate committees of the legislature by January 15, 1999.