Media Advisory: Nov. 14, 2007

BWC Directors Hear Public Input on Proposed Group Rating Change

Actuary Committee Votes to Recommend 87 Percent Discount

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors’ Actuary Committee this afternoon voted to recommend a three-percent decrease in the group-rating discount program. The Board of Directors is expected to consider lowering the current 90 percent discount at its Nov. 21 meeting.

“The recommended reduction of the group discount from 90 to 87 percent is the first step in creating a system based on equity and stability,” said BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan. “Many challenges lie ahead and I look forward to working with the Board of Directors in our ongoing process to make Ohio’s workers’ compensation system fair for all employers.”

Earlier in the day, the Committee heard comments from Ohio employers and employer representatives on the subject of group rating. Sixty speakers addressed the directors for three hours, sharing their group-rating experiences and thoughts on the proposition to lower the current 90 percent group discount to no less than 80 percent. Approximately 115 others submitted their statements in writing.

“The input from Ohio’s employers and stakeholders is invaluable in our decision-making process,” said Charles Bryan, chairman, Actuary Committee. “Opinions on the group-rating program vary greatly and the issue is one that is important to those who belong to a group and those who do not. I’m confident that today’s testimony will provide a clearer picture on the issue for this committee and the Board of Directors.”

“Today’s forum was an outstanding example of the transparency the Board of Directors and the BWC are striving for when making decisions that will impact Ohio employers,” added Administrator Ryan. “The issue of group rating sparks passion in those who are impacted by it, and today’s speakers truly brought to light numerous issues they’ve faced as members of a group and as non group members.”

The BWC Board of Directors is scheduled to meet Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2007 at 8 a.m. in Room 2, Level 2 of the William Green Building, located at 30 W. Spring St., Columbus. Committees are scheduled to meet Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2007 also in the William Green Building. Members will participate in a training session from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. in Room 2. The Investment Committee will meet from 12-2:00 p.m. in Room 2; the Actuary Committee will meet from 2-4 p.m. in Room 1; and the Audit Committee will meet from 4-6 p.m. in Room 3.

In an effort to educate and inform Ohio employers and affiliated associations, BWC has established a group rating Web site on ohiobwc.com.

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BWC Board of Directors

Chairman William Lhota, SI Employers | Charles Bryan, Actuary | David Caldwell, Employee Organizations | Alison Falls, Investment & Securities | Philip Fulton, Employees | Kenneth Haffey, CPA | James Harris, Employee Organizations | James Hummel, Large Employers | Jim Matesich, Small Employers | Larry Price, Public | Robert Smith, Investment & Securities