IL HB0549

Defines "catastrophic injury" as a grievous or serious injury or impairment that permanently prevents an employee from performing any gainful work.

Requires employers to pay entire health insurance premiums for law enforcement, correctional, correctional probation officers, and firefighters who suffer catastrophic injuries in the line of duty, extending coverage to their spouse and dependent children up to age 25 if still dependent or a student.

Authorizes employers to require employees seeking benefits to submit to medical examinations by up to 3 licensed physicians at employer expense to determine if a catastrophic injury exists.

Assigns determination of catastrophic injury to the employer's corporate authorities or a designated person by ordinance, with the determination final but subject to judicial review under the Administrative Review Law; designates employer as a necessary party to any Administrative Review Law case.

Makes fraudulent statements to obtain benefits under this Act a Class A misdemeanor, with convicted individuals required to forfeit benefits and reimburse the employer for all paid benefits.