By Drew Adams
Murray, KY – A union that represents Illinois state workers at facilities which saw large payouts for workers' comp claims say the numbers show the work is difficult and sometimes dangerous. An Associated Press analysis of state data shows that a cluster of 12 state-run prisons and human services facilities accounts for $41 million in on-the-job injury compensation from 2007 to 2010. The sum is nearly one-third of the total paid out to state workers during that time. American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees spokesperson Anders Lindall says state employees have to guard dangerous criminals, keep mentally ill patients from hurting themselves and care for infirm veterans. He says it's difficult and dangerous work and those who are injured should be compensated fairly.