The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation said Thursday that Ohio public employers will pay an average of 6.1% less in workers compensation premiums, an $11.8 million decrease beginning Jan. 1.
The reduction represents the average decrease for public employer taxing districts statewide. Premium changes for individual public entities will differ based on their manual classification, recent claims history and participation in various BWC programs, according to the statement.
“This latest reduction shows our continued commitment to help employers succeed by keeping their rates as low and fair as possible,” Sarah Morrison, Columbus, Ohio-based administrator and CEO of the bureau, said in the statement. “We know the less they spend on premiums, the more they can invest in their communities and into safer work environments for their employees.”
The Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation’s new rule aimed at discouraging lumbar fusion surgery and use of opioids for workers with back injuries is consistent with best medical practices and unlikely to face legal challenge, according to some experts.