Rulemaking is needed to implement claim resolution structured settlement agreements, required by Engrossed House Bill 2123 (Chapter 37, Laws of 2011). These agreements will be available for claims for injured workers age fifty-five and older effective January 1, 2012, fifty-three and older effective January 1, 2015, and fifty and older effective January 1, 2016. This rulemaking creates new rules to clarify requirements and the process for these agreements. The changes were adopted 1/3/2012 and became effective on 1/3/2012.644.

Rulemaking is needed to assist in the implementation of claim resolution structured settlement agreements, as allowed by Engrossed House Bill 2123 (Chapter 37, Laws of 2011, 1st Special Session). These agreements will be available for claims for injured workers age 55 and older effective January 1, 2012, 53 and older effective January 1, 2015, and 50 and older effective January 1, 2016. Section 301 of the legislation (codified as RCW 51.04.062) states that the legislature recognizes that certain workers would benefit from an option allowing them to initiate claim resolution structured settlements to pursue work or retirement goals independent of the workers’ compensation system. This rulemaking creates a new Chapter 296-14A WAC to clarify requirements and the process for these agreements. The changes were adopted 3/20/2012 and became effective on 4/20/2012.651.