The Oregon Management Labor Advisory Committee (MLAC), and two subcommittees, met on August 22nd and August 23rd to address key workers’ compensation issues, including access to care, exclusive remedy, and average weekly wages.

Exclusive remedy laws mean that when a worker is injured on the job, they typically can't sue their employer and must rely on the workers’ compensation system for benefits. The MLAC reviewed a presentation on the history of these laws, along with updates from the Workers’ Compensation Division, the Workers’ Compensation Board, and two subcommittees focused on access to care and wage issues.

The Access to Care Subcommittee resumed discussions on proposals that were included in House Bill 3374 (2025), a bill that has since died. These discussions focused on provider availability, administrative burdens, managed care communication, and barriers to timely and appropriate treatment, particularly in rural areas.

Meetings will be accessible via Zoom, and agendas are available here.

Access to care continues to be a challenge in Oregon, especially in rural areas where provider shortages and administrative hurdles can delay treatment. Healthesystems supports the MLAC’s process by sharing data-driven insights, highlighting patient and provider experiences, and advocating for practical reforms that make care more accessible and efficient for injured workers.