The True Cost of Proposed Workers Compensation Changes

Proposed workers compensation reform in Illinois. To speak with a workers compensation attorney in Chicago, call Ankin Law Office at 312-600-0000.

Governor Bruce Rauner's recent proposal to reform workers' compensation could force many injured Illinois workers to spiral into poverty. Illinois, filled with thousands of workers who endure the punishing aspects of occupations like construction, mining and various types of factory work, has commonly been known as a worker friendly state. When compared with neighboring Indiana, Illinois has offered injured workers financial compensation that has been deemed more fair and easier to access. If Governor Rauner gets his way, however, Illinois could join the pack of approximately 30 other states who have narrowed eligibility requirements for workers' compensation, created difficult hurdles for those who are injured on the job, and reduced the amount of benefits successful claimants receive.

Governor Rauner claims that the high cost of workers' compensation in Illinois is partially responsible for driving jobs to neighboring states. Unfortunately, when employers costs are reduced, it will be society that ultimately pays. According to Chicago workers compensation attorney Howard Ankin, "In his quest to reform the system to lower costs and reduce benefits, Governor Rauner may be unfairly shifting the cost of work-related injuries and illnesses to employees, their families, and the government."

The inability to qualify for workers' compensation benefits will force many injured victims who are unable to work to deplete their savings, and many will face extreme financial hardship. Although some who are disabled will be able to qualify for the government's Social Security Disability Insurance, shifting the financial burden to SSDI will not save the public money. A report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reveals that in 2010 alone, SSDI footed the bill for an estimated $12 billion in payments to injured workers. Since fewer employers were held financially responsible for incidents that caused injuries and illnesses in the workplace, potentially hazardous conditions were not as easily identified - which could hinder the safety of all employees.

Company :-Ankin Law Office LLC

User :- Howard Ankin

Email :-howard@ankinlaw.com

Phone :-312-600-0000

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Url :- http://ankinlaw.com/