(a) Except as otherwise provided by law or commissioner rule, the parties to a disputed compensation claim are not entitled to a contested case hearing or arbitration on the claim unless a benefit review conference is conducted as provided by this subchapter.

(b) The commissioner by rule shall adopt guidelines relating to claims that do not require a benefit review conference and may proceed directly to a contested case hearing or arbitration.

Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch. 269, § 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1993. Amended by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., ch. 265, § 3.156, eff. Sept. 1, 2005.