Whereas, there are concerns about the time frames established in current law for the hearing procedures of the Workers' Compensation Board; and

Whereas, these time-frame concerns raise questions about fairness to the parties addressing a workers' compensation claim; and

Whereas, these questions must be examined as soon as possible to remedy any current unfairness in the timing of the workers' compensation hearing process; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of Maine and require the following legislation as immediately necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health and safety; now, therefore, be it

Sec. 1. Commission established. Resolved: That the Commission to Study the Hearing Process of the Workers' Compensation Board, referred to in this resolve as the "commission," is established; and be it further

Sec. 2. Membership. Resolved: That the commission consists of 6 members appointed as follows:

1. One representative of the Department of Labor appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, who shall consider recommendations from the Commissioner of Labor in making the appointment;

2. One member of the Joint Standing Committee on Banking and Insurance appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House;

3. Three members of the Joint Standing Committee on Labor, with one Senator appointed by the President of the Senate and 2 Representatives appointed by the Speaker of the House; and

4. One representative of an insurance company appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House; and be it further

Sec. 3. Appointments; convening; chair. Resolved: That all appointments must be made no later than 10 days following the effective date of this resolve. The appointing authorities shall