Modifies provisions related to workers' compensation administrative law judges

HB 1709 updates Missouri's workers' compensation rules for permanent total disability claims. It establishes specific weekly payment formulas based on injury dates (1983-2038), capping benefits at 70-105% of the state average weekly wage. The bill clarifies that death benefits for permanent disability terminate with the employee, with no payments to dependents or estates. For toxic exposure claims (including mesothelioma), it creates tiered benefits: 200% of average wages for 100 weeks (non-mesothelioma) and 300% for 212 weeks (mesothelioma), with employer election options for liability.