SB 580 - This act modifies the definitions of "accident" and "injury" as used in Chapter 287, RSMo, (Workers' Compensation) and adds a provision regarding aggravation of pre-existing conditions.

This act adds provisions regarding claims of occupational diseases due to repetitive motion. All issues regarding such a claim shall be handled in one hearing. Any employer, whether the latest employer or a prior employer, may join the case. The claimant is required to cooperate in all phases of such hearing.

This act creates a conclusive presumption that if an employee was legally drunk at the time of an injury, the use of alcohol proximately caused the injury and any benefits are forfeited.

An Administrative Law Judge may dismiss a claim without a hearing upon written request from the employee. Claims that have been pending three years without a hearing shall be automatically dismissed with prejudice. Persons under active medical care are exempted from this provision.

Employees who fail to keep two regularly scheduled medical appointments must pay the expense of the second missed appointment.

Workers' compensation law shall be impartially and not liberally construed with a view to the public welfare.
VANESSA CALEB