Top Lawmakers Will Carry Workers' Comp Option Legislation

By Bill Kidd, Central Bureau ChiefTwo of most powerful members of the Oklahoma Legislature have agreed to carry legislation to give employers an alternative to workers’ compensation to protect injured workers – and to reduce costs to businesses.Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Kris Steele, R-Shawnee, will take the lead on Senate Bill 1378, the “Oklahoma Employee Injury Benefit Act.”The legislation is backed by the Oklahoma Injury Benefit Coalition (OIBC), representing employers who want an option to state...