DWC posts update to proposed Utilization Review regulations

On June 6, 2025, following extensive public comment, the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) submitted a rulemaking package to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) that proposed significant changes to the utilization review (UR) process.

On July 22, 2025, OAL notified DWC of its disapproval of the entire package based on five specific proposed amendments that required further clarity and two that required additional notice; OAL formally issued its Decision of Disapproval on July 28, 2025 (“OAL Decision”). Pursuant to Government Code section 11349.4(a), the OAL Decision allows DWC to resubmit a revised regulation package to correct the identified deficiencies within 120 days of receipt of the OAL Decision.

DWC intends to issue a revised proposal which should remedy the deficiencies. The revised proposal, allowing an opportunity for public comment, will be duly noticed in a subsequent Newsline. Following the end of public comment period, DWC plans to resubmit the package to OAL within sufficient time to meet the originally requested effective date of January 1, 2026.

---