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In a groundbreaking move, Illinois lawmakers have passed a series of comprehensive reforms to the state's workers compensation system, aimed at providing greater support and protection for individuals who are injured on the job. The changes, set to go into effect on July 1, 2026, mark a significant shift in how injured workers in Illinois will be compensated and supported during their recovery.One of the key changes in the new legislation is the establishment of a minimum wage guarantee for injured workers receiving workers compensation benefits. Under the new law, injured workers will be entitled to receive a minimum of 60% of their pre-injury average weekly wage, ensuring that they can continue to support themselves and their families while they recover from their injuries.Additionally, the reforms include provisions to streamline the claims process and make it easier for injured workers to access the benefits they are entitled to. This includes the creation of a new online portal where workers can submit their claims and track the progress of their case in real-time. These changes are expected to reduce delays and red tape in the system, ensuring that injured workers receive the support they need in a timely manner.Furthermore, the reforms also include provisions to increase the amount of time that injured workers have to file a claim for workers compensation benefits. Under the new law, workers will have up to three years from the date of their injury to file a claim, giving them ample time to seek the compensation they are entitled to.In a statement regarding the reforms, Illinois Governor praised the changes as a long-overdue step towards providing greater support and protection for injured workers in the state. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that workers are able to access the benefits they need to recover from their injuries and return to work in a timely manner.The reforms have been met with widespread support from labor unions, advocacy groups, and injured workers themselves, who have long called for changes to the state's workers compensation system. With these new reforms set to go into effect next month, injured workers in Illinois can look forward to a more streamlined and supportive process for accessing the benefits they deserve.