On April 27, 2020, the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission rescinded its emergency rule that had expanded the presumption of work relatedness for COVID-19 infections to all businesses that are deemed to be critical under Governor Pritzker’s stay-at-home order. A Sangamon County judge had issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting implementation of the emergency rule.

The administration has indicated that it will address this issue in the state legislature. Business groups and labor organizations have drawn sides on this issue, and a vigorous debate in the legislature is expected if a similar bill is presented.

Ogletree Deakins will continue to monitor and report on developments with respect to COVID-19 pandemic and will post updates in the firm’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource Center as additional information becomes available.