IB to ESA: Start of Limit for ESA Benefit Pay

Hello, I'm very new here, so here goes.
I've been on IB for many years and have not yet been assest for the new ESA. Could anyone tell me if the 1 or 2 year benefit payment limit for the work group ESA is now definate or is it still a firm proposal? Also, am I correct in thinking that when someone is transferred to ESA from IB, the 1 or 2year benefit limit is started from the date of transfer, which is different to the retrospective back date applied to those already on ESA?
Many thanks & may I add what a great help this site is. I will however appoligise in advance if my questions have already been asked, only I do get easily confused and couldn't find any. Thanks again.

Hi i have spoke to a friend and he says he is in WRAG group and it states 2 years. I was of the opinion you were in wrag group for 1 year, then award ceased. Then you could get ESA means tested? Regards MBS.

This is the information you need.

The legislation currently working its way through parliament is expected to bring in a limit to contributions based ESA for some claimants, after which it will still be possible to claim ESA(IR).

The contributions period will include time before the new provision comes in.

For details of how it will work, see the link.

Thanks to you both. So am I correct in assuming that: 1) The law setting a time limit for contribution based ESA (work group) benefit is almost certain to be passed & be effective from April 2012. 2) The limit will be for 1 year only. 3) For IB people, the 1 year clock will start ticking on the day they are officaly transferred to contribution based ESA (work group). Thanks again.

Many thanks for your answer Gordon.