HB 2602

Abstract

Amends the Chicago Firefighters Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Requires that a disabled fireman who is receiving a duty, occupational disease, or ordinary disability benefit be examined on a periodic basis as determined by the Board, but at least once a year (was, at least once a year). Provides that if a fireman refuses to submit to such medical, surgical, or hospital treatment as is reasonably essential to promote his recovery from disability, he shall have no further right to receive the benefit. Provides a window during which a fireman who re-entered service and failed to repay his refund within the required 2-year period may repay the refund. Provides that a fireman who has failed to repay any refund due to the Fund after re-entering service shall be treated as a new employee and shall only receive service credit from the date that he has re-entered service as a new employee. Provides that, in those cases where the injury or death for which a disability or death benefit is payable was caused under circumstances creating a legal liability on the part of some person or entity to pay damages to the fireman, then legal proceedings may be taken against such other person or entity to recover damages notwithstanding the Fund's payment of or liability to pay disability or death benefits. Provides that the Fund may join in any action brought by the disabled fireman or his personal representative. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement.