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State House Votes To Abolish Workers' Comp System

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) -- The Illinois House has voted to abolish the state's workers' compensation system, instead shifting such claims to the state's circuit court system.

The measure would mean that, as of Jan. 1, 2019, approximately 55,000 workers' compensation claims currently before the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission would go through the state's courts.

The proposal passed the House by a 65-48 vote on Friday. It now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Some supporters said the proposal will pressure business, labor and medical groups to agree on a comprehensive overhaul of the workers' compensation system, but the sponsor, Rep. John Bradley (D-Marion) said he's serious about abolishing the system altogether.

Opponents said the courts would be unable to handle the workers' compensation caseload.

(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS Radio and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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