HB 128

Abstract

Amends the Employer's Liability Rates Article of the Illinois Insurance Code. Provides that a premium is excessive if it is likely to produce a profit that is unreasonably high for the insurance provided or if expenses are unreasonably high in relation to the services rendered. Sets forth procedures for the review of premiums by the Director of Insurance at the request of the insured. Amends the Workers' Compensation Act. Provides that accidental injuries sustained while traveling to or from work do not arise out of and in the course of employment. Permits an employer to file with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission a workers' compensation safety program or a workers' compensation return to work program implemented by the employer. Provides that (i) injuries to the shoulder shall be considered injuries to part of the arm and (ii) injuries to the hip shall be considered injuries to part of the leg. Contains provisions concerning repetitive and cumulative injuries; permanent partial disability determinations; annual reports by the Commission concerning self-insurance for workers' compensation in Illinois; and duties of the Workers' Compensation Premium Rates Task Force. Makes additional changes to the Workers' Compensation Act. Provides for an evidence-based drug formulary. Requires an annual investigation of procedures covered for ambulatory surgical centers and the establishment of a fee schedule. Changes a waiting period for benefits for certain firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and paramedics. Changes compensation computations for subsequent injuries to the same part of the spine. Effective immediately.