April 22, 2021
For Immediate Release
(Austin, TX) – Today, HB 1635 by Representative Jared Patterson was voted out of the Texas House. This legislation would require the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) to study certain aspects and outcomes of workers’ compensation claims specifically filed by first responders.
Having met with first responders from across the state over the past two years, Rep. Patterson recognized a strong need for reform. To ensure the right policies and procedures are adjusted to meet their needs, he filed HB 1635.
Specifically, this bill would direct DWC to conduct a one-time study analyzing medical costs, return-to-work outcomes, access to and utilization of care, satisfaction with care, and health-related functional outcomes. DWC would also be required to submit a report detailing the findings of the study to the governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house, and the members of the legislature by December 1, 2022.
Rep. Patterson, serving his second term on the House Committee on Business & Industry with jurisdiction over DWC, has filed numerous pieces of legislation supporting Texas first responders. “Too many first responders have to fight tooth and nail to get the benefits they deserve. I am confident that HB 1635 will provide legislators with the tools necessary to better support them in future sessions,” said Rep. Patterson.
Jared Patterson represents House District 106, which encompasses the eastern portion of Denton County. During the 86th Legislative Session, Patterson authored and passed initiatives in policy areas such as transportation, education, property taxes, as well as eliminated unnecessary and burdensome government regulations. Patterson serves on the House Committees on Business & Industry, Calendars, and Homeland Security & Public Safety. He also serves on the Texas Cybersecurity Council. His family resides in Frisco.
