Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the Illinois Self Insurers' Association 2024 Workers' Compensation and Safety Conference a Huge Success

Attendees had an extraordinary day at our 15th Annual Workers’ Compensation Conference. It was filled with informative presentations covering a wide range of topics.

The keynote address was delivered by Michael Brennan, Chairman of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. A legislative panel on what workers' compensation changes to expect in 2025 included Assistant Majority Leader, Marcus Evans as well as Representative Dan Ugaste and Senator Seth Lewis.

Our deepest gratitude goes out to our keynote speaker, panelists and breakout presenters for sharing their expertise and knowledge. We are immensely thankful to everyone who contributed to making this event a success.

Also, thanks to our Chamber sponsors, ISIA, exhibitors, and the Illinois Chamber staff for their unwavering support and dedication. This event wouldn't have been possible without the collaborative efforts of all involved.

Attendees were asked to respond to a survey on Illinois workers’ compensation issues. The survey is intended to help prioritize Chamber member concerns which we can push for during the 2025 agreed bill process. If you are interested in submitting a response, CLICK HERE and return to Jay Shattuck by October 25^th at jaydeeshattuck@michaelbest.com

Two Key Employment Law Issues Likely to be Considered in Veto Session

The Illinois General Assembly is scheduled to meet for the Veto Session on November 12-14 and 19-21. Although there will be no vetoes to be considered and there has been speculation that the session will be cancelled, it is likely that the six days will be trimmed back.

Unemployment Insurance Changes Needed Before January 1, 2025

The 2021 unemployment insurance agreed bill seems to be working as predicted when the legislation was enacted. As part of the agreement at that time, “speed bumps” were included in the package. “Speed bumps” are changes to lower benefits and increase employer taxes intended to bring the parties together to renegotiate the law if necessary. We don’t see any problems that require business and labor to renegotiate the 2021 agreement. Consequently, the General Assembly must extend the date when the “speed bumps” kick in, otherwise benefits will be reduced and the UI taxes employers pay will increase.

We will keep our members apprised as this unfolds.

E-Verify Likely to be Revisited

Over the past two years, the Michael Best Strategies team has been engaged on behalf of Illinois Chamber members negotiating changes to the Illinois The Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act. The result was PA 103-879 which made changes to Section 12 and added new Section 13 to the Act. The changes impact Illinois employers utilizing an E-Verify and goes into effect January 1,2025.

With some confusion about how the changes are to be implemented, proponents are looking to clarify their intent which may be inconsistent with what the Chamber believes the agreement was.

The confusion centers around whether employers may voluntarily use the E-Verify system. The Chamber’s position on PA 103-879 is:

The new provisions prohibit any Illinois state requirements beyond federal law as it pertains to work authorization and E-Verify. Section 13 is intended to defer to federal law regarding the rules and processes surrounding E-Verify and workplace authorization so we are not in conflict. PA 103-879 does not speak to whether a business may voluntarily enroll in E-Verify but rather ensures alignment with the feds. Federal law does require use of E-Verify for federal contracts and for fully remote employees but voluntary use by an Illinois employer also is still permissible.

Up Coming Illinois Chamber Learning Opportunities

New Employment Laws Forum…great opportunity to help employers prepare for new Illinois and federal employment laws. Date: December 4^th from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm at the Doubletree Hilton, Lisle, IL Registration and more information

Insurance Coverage & Risk Transfer Agreements: What Every Business Owner Should Know… Webinar on November 13th from 10:30 am- 11:30 am Registration & more information

Illinois Pay Transparency Mandates Go Into Effect on Jan. 1, 2025…Is Your Business Ready?... Webinar on November 14^th from 10:30 am to noon Registration & more information