1. (a) This section does not apply to a claim involving a temporary disability.
2. (b) If the Commission finds that a lump-sum payment is warranted under the facts and circumstances of a claim, the Commission may order that compensation payable to a covered employee or the dependents of a covered employee be converted to a partial or total lump sum.

3. (c) If the Commission grants a lump-sum payment under this section in a claim involving permanent total disability or death, the Commission shall:

   1. (1) reduce the weekly rate of compensation until the amount of the lump sum would have been paid if it had been paid in weekly payments; and

   2. (2) determine in the award:

      1. (i) the dollar amount and the number of weeks to be paid by the employer or its insurer at the reduced weekly rate; and
      2. (ii) if payments are made from the Subsequent Injury Fund, the dollar amount and the number of weeks to be paid by the Subsequent Injury Fund at the reduced weekly rate.
4. (d) An award may not be discounted because of a lump-sum payment.

Added by Acts 1991, c. 8, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 1991.

Formerly Art. 101, § 49.