HB461 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Rod Scott

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Workers' compensation, burial expense, maximum amount increased, Sec. 25-5-67 am'd.

Summary

This bill raises the maximum burial expense paid under Alabama workers' compensation death benefits from $3,000 to $6,500.

What This Bill Does

If a covered employee dies from a work-related accident or occupational disease, burial expenses paid by the employer would be capped at $6,500 (in addition to other medical costs). If there is a dispute over the value of burial services, the court would approve the payment after notifying interested parties. The bill amends Section 25-5-67 and becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Employers and workers' compensation insurers would be responsible for a higher burial expense cap (up to $6,500) in death benefits.
• Deceased employees' families and beneficiaries would potentially receive higher burial coverage and may face court oversight if the burial cost value is disputed.

Key Provisions

• Raises the burial expense cap from $3,000 to $6,500 for deaths arising from employment-related accidents or occupational diseases.
• Burial expenses remain in addition to medical and hospital expenses provided under the plan.
• Disputes over the reasonable value of burial services are to be resolved with court approval before payment, after reasonable notice to interested parties.
• Effective date: the act takes effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Workers' Compensation