Oklahoma governor takes comp reforms to Illinois to attract businesses

It's not unusual for a governor to pitch businesses on expanding their facilities in a particular state. But it's not often a governor goes to another state to do so.

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin traveled to Chicago last month to boast of the pro-business changes adopted by the 2011 Oklahoma Legislature. Among them were reforms to the workers' comp system.

Fallin recently signed legislation aimed at cutting employer's costs for workers' comp. Included are provisions to adopt a new medical fee schedule and require the use of nationally recognized treatment guidelines for work-related injuries.

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Fallin said she met with Illinois-based businesses that have a presence in Oklahoma, such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Navistar, and Acciona, which manufacturers wind turbines.

The governor said she wanted to thank the companies for the investments they have already made and encourage them to consider Oklahoma for any future expansions.

Her timing followed the adoption of workers' comp reforms in Illinois.

Read more at the WorkersComp Forum homepage.

August 4, 2011

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