Ohio BWC Moves to Slash Private Employer Workers’ Comp Rates for 2026
- The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors is considering a 1% rate reduction for the state’s private employers.
- If approved, this change would take effect July 1, 2026, potentially saving businesses an estimated $10 million.
- This proposed cut follows a separate 1% reduction for public employers that became effective on January 1.
- These consecutive decreases contribute to average statewide premium levels reaching their lowest point in more than 65 years.
NCCI Unpacks How Costs Emerge in Large Workers’ Comp Claims
- Large workers’ compensation claims are classified as “fast” or “slow” based on the speed at which costs emerge.
- Fast claims typically involve catastrophic physical injuries, while slow claims can stem from occupational diseases or head trauma.
- The NCCI notes that despite stable claim frequency, the severity and cost of these cases are increasing.
- Analyzing these trends assists insurers and employers in forecasting financial liabilities and setting reserves.
Ohio Court Reinstates Transit Authority’s Defense in Workers’ Comp Case
- In Fulkroad v. Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority, an Ohio appellate court overturned a default judgment that had been entered against an employer in a workers’ compensation appeal.
- The trial judge had originally granted judgment for the worker after the employer’s attorney failed to appear at a case management conference.
- The appellate court ruled this was an abuse of discretion, as the employer had actively participated in the case by filing an answer and conducting discovery.
- This decision allows the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority to continue contesting the employee’s right to participate in the state workers’ compensation fund.