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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
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