SB 1539

Abstract

Amends the Workers' Compensation Act. Provides that an employee who is required to travel in connection with his or her employment and who suffers an injury while in travel status is eligible for benefits only if the injury arises out of and in the course of employment while he or she is actively engaged in the duties of employment. Adds definitions of "accident" and "injury". Provides that an injury is a condition that arises out of and in the course of employment, and adds provisions concerning establishment of an injury. Establishes the manner of computing compensation for partial disability, with a maximum cumulative compensation of 500 weeks. Provides that injuries to the shoulder and hip are deemed to be injuries to the arm and leg respectively. Provides for the computation of compensation when there are multiple employers and when there is less than full-time work. Provides that no employer shall be required to pay temporary partial disability benefits to an employee who has been discharged for cause. Provides that, following a hearing, the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission may reinstate the temporary partial benefits and retroactively restore any benefits the employer should have paid if it finds the employer's discharge of the employee was not for cause. Effective immediately.