The Illinois House of Representatives passed a bill that would make it easier for some first responders who acquire methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to obtain workers’ compensation benefits.

HB 3662, which unanimously passed the House on Wednesday, would amend the state’s Workers’ Compensation Act to create a rebuttable presumption that firefighters, emergency medical technicians and paramedics who contract MRSA did so in the course and scope of their employment.

However, workers are eligible for the presumption only if they’ve been employed in their role for five years.

The bill is now in the Senate for consideration. If signed into law, it would take effect immediately.

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