Illinois Lawsuit, Executive Order Could Set Precedent for WC Nationwide, Attorneys Say

A wrongful death lawsuit and a gubernatorial order in Illinois could open the door for fundamental changes to workers’ compensation systems across the country, a panel of lawyers said Wednesday. Earlier this month, the family of a man who worked at a Chicago-area Walmart and died of COVID-19 complications sued the retail giant for allegedly ignoring his symptoms and failing to tell employees he may have contracted the virus. On Monday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued an executive order stating that some essential employees who believe they contracted COVID-19 while working will auto...