§ 9-410. Workers' compensation insurer office and personnel requirements

   (a) Local office. -- An insurer that provides workers' compensation insurance in the State shall have in the State competent individuals who:

   (1) handle and adjust each disputed workers' compensation claim in the State for the insurer; and

   (2) possess the knowledge and experience to handle and adjust each disputed claim.

(b) Toll-free telephone number. -- An insurer that provides workers' compensation insurance in the State shall establish a toll-free telephone number through which an insured or claimant, or a representative of an insured or claimant, may make direct telephone inquiries during regular business hours.

(c) Penalty. -- The Commission may assess a fine not exceeding $ 1,000 on an insurer that does not comply with this section.

HISTORY: 2000, ch. 468; 2001, ch. 29, § 1; ch. 609.