SRC-LBB S.B. 1572 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1572 By: Carona State Affairs 4/4/2003 As Filed DIGEST AND PURPOSE HB 2600, enacted by the 77th Texas Legislature, abolished Texas Workers' Compensation Commission's (TWCC) treatment guidelines and required that newly adopted guidelines be nationally recognized, scientifically valid and outcome-based. As proposed, S.B. 1572 authorizes TWCC to adopt treatment guidelines in the workers' compensation system. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY Rulemaking authority previously granted to the Texas Workers Compensation Commission is modified in SECTION 1 (Section 413.011, Labor Code) of this bill. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 413.011(e), Labor Code, to authorize the Texas Workers' Compensation Commission (TWCC) to adopt by rule treatment guidelines and individual treatment protocols, including return-to-work guidelines. Provides that if a nationally recognized treatment protocol or guideline is not available for adoption by TWCC, then TWCC is not prevented from adopting a treatment guideline or protocol as long as it is scientifically valid and outcome-based. Makes a conforming change. SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2003.