SB 6427-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Revises provisions relating to industrial insurance appeals.

Provides that an attorney engaged in the representation of any worker or beneficiary may charge or receive a fee for services rendered in connection with securing benefits under this title that is twenty percent of the compensation awarded under chapter 51.32 RCW; or the amount fixed by the department, board, or the court under RCW 51.52.120; whichever is less. This fee requirement shall apply regardless of the number of forums in which the attorney has represented the worker or beneficiary.

Requires the department to notify any worker or beneficiary represented by an attorney that the attorney's fee is restricted as provided in this act.

Provides that any attorney entitled to a fee under chapter 51.52 RCW shall be paid by the worker or beneficiary but only after the worker or beneficiary has received the total compensation to which he or she is entitled under chapter 51.32 RCW.

Provides that any person who violates any provision of RCW 51.52.120 from the date of conviction may not engage in the representation for a fee of a worker or beneficiary in connection with securing benefits under Title 51 RCW.