The Illinois Senate Special Committee on Workers’ Compensation held its first of two hearings on the call for workers’ compensation reform on November 29, 2010 in Springfield. The Committee expressed a general interest in learning more about the detrimental impact rising workers’ compensation costs are having on employment in Illinois, particularly given our current economic climate and the rate of unemployment. The Committee has asked for specific evidence, data and testimony from business and the insurance industry for its next hearing on December 8, 2010, which will be held in Chicago.

We also want to inform you that the Illinois House of Representatives has convened a similar committee, which will conduct its first of two hearings on December 3, 2010. We anticipate a similar format and similar presentations.

Please let us know if you are interested in seeing changes in Illinois Workers’ Compensation, and if you are, do not hesitate. Please contact our office for further information regarding the evidence and witnesses needed for these upcoming hearings. It is anticipated that the legislature may take action on proposed legislation within the next few weeks, so time is of the essence.