Bill Changing Arbitrator Reappointment Process Sparks Concern

By Bill Kidd, Central Bureau ChiefAn amendment added to legislation passed by the Illinois House of Representatives last week is generating confusion over who has the responsibility for reappointing 11 arbitrators whose terms at the Workers’ Compensation Commission expire July 1 -- and concern over what the effects of the change may be.House Bill 1084 by Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, a measure dealing with notes on legislative mandates affecting businesses, was amended in the Senate to require that the governor reappoint arbitrators with the advice and consent of the Senate. Curre...