GOVERNOR’S BRIEFING
Governor JB Pritzker‘s briefing focused on the state’s call for calm emotional support program and other support services. He also highlighted various organizations providing services to others.
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION RULE WITHDRAWN
As communicated earlier today, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) will formally withdraw the emergency rule at their meeting Monday morning. You may view the IWCC agenda here. This comes on the heels of the court granting a TRO as a result of the lawsuit filed by IRMA and the IMA and supported by over two-dozen other organizations.
While this brings an end to this phase, the IWCC will be forming a committee to work on a new rule and we fully anticipate legislative efforts when the Assembly ultimately returns.
The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) produced this analysis demonstrating how much the emergency rule would have cost Illinois employers. Depending on infection rates, the cost could have exceeded $4.4 billion. Utilizing current infection rates, the cost would be closer to $1 billion.
FACE COVERINGS SUPPLIERS
Beginning May 1st, everyone will be required to wear a facial covering when they cannot maintain social distancing and are in a public place. In order to assist retailers in the procurement of facial coverings, IRMA will pass along supplier information as received. Retailers can review and contact the supplier of their choice on IRMA’s website.
ILLINOIS COVID-19 IMPACT UPDATE
Dr. Ngozi Ezike, MD, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health announced 2,119 new cases in Illinois, including 80 additional deaths. IDPH is reporting a total of 41,777 cases, to date, including 1,874 deaths, in 96 of Illinois’ 102 counties.
As of midnight, there were 4,699 individuals hospitalized as a result of COVID-19. of those, 1,244 or 26.5% are in the ICU. Of those in the ICU, 763 or 61.3% or on ventilators.
Over the last 24-hours, the state has conducted 11, 985 tests.
Additional information can be found here. COVID-19 stats by zip code can be found here.