Workers’ comp overhaul adopted

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Updated: July 8, 2011 2:26PM

SPRINGFIELD — A workers compensation package that had failed Sunday was revived on the Legislature’s last day in session.

“I’m very pleased that the General Assembly passed this historic reform. It’s now incumbent on all of us to work to implement these changes and improve the business climate of this state,” said Greg Baise, president of the Illinois Manufacturers Association, which pushed for the bill.

The cornerstone of the legislation, a 30 percent reduction in fees that businesses must pay to doctors, would save companies between $500 million and $700 million.

The measure also establishes a medical network for workers compensation claims, cuts the period during which someone can draw payments for carpal tunnel syndrome from 40 weeks to 28 weeks and switches the burden of proof from employers to workers in proving whether alcohol or drugs contributed to workplace accidents.

“These are huge changes in the workers compensation system in the state of Illinois,” said Rep. John Bradley (D-Marion), the bill’s chief House sponsor.

The House voted 62-43 vote in support of the package, which was brought back to life by House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, handing another victory to Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Gov. Pat Quinn, who each lobbied for the bill.

The measure had failed in the House Sunday by a 55-39 vote, dealing a setback to what had been one of the top spring priorities for Springfield’s ruling Democrats, who wanted a pro-business vote after orchestrating a 46 percent increase in the corporate income tax rate in January.

Quinn said the major overhaul of Illinois workers’ compensation system will mean “significant saving” for the state. He said the reforms are crucial to maintain economic competitiveness.

Quinn says the legislation also will attack fraud and abuse, noting lawmakers have “fundamentally changed” the system.