HB 2495

Abstract

Amends the Workers' Compensation Act. Provides that an employer or group of employers and the representative of its employees may agree to establish binding obligations and procedures relating to workers' compensation. Provides that the agreement must be limited to, but need not include: an alternative dispute resolution system to supplement, modify, or replace the procedural or dispute resolution provisions of the Act; a list of providers of medical treatment that may be the exclusive source of all medical and related treatment; a list of providers that may be the exclusive source of impartial medical examinations; creation of a transitional or modified return to work program; a list of individuals and companies for the provision of vocational rehabilitation or retraining programs; the establishment of safety committees and safety procedures; and the adoption of a 24 hour health care coverage plan. Provides that a copy of the agreement shall be filed with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission. Provides that the new provisions do not allow any agreement that diminishes an employee's entitlement to benefits under the Act, an agreement does not diminish an employee's entitlement to benefits, and an agreement that diminishes the employee's entitlement to benefits is void. Provides that an employer insured under the Act shall provide notice to its insurance carrier of its intent to enter into an agreement with its employees and obtain consent from its insurance carrier to enter into an agreement. Effective immediately.