For Immediate Release: Jan. 10, 2008

BWC Identifies Top Non-compliant Employers

100 Ohio Firms Owe More Than $10K; Operating Without Workers’ Comp Coverage

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) has identified 100 employers who have failed to pay for workers’ compensation insurance. Each of these non-compliant employers owes more than $10,000 in workers’ compensation premiums for the period that was due for payment on Aug. 31, 2007. In failing to pay their premiums, each firm has allowed its workers’ compensation coverage to lapse.

“BWC works aggressively to encourage non-compliant employers to pay their workers’ compensation premiums,” said BWC Administrator Marsha Ryan. “The true sufferers are the compliant employers who operate their businesses in accordance with Ohio law. Because BWC is revenue-neutral, Ohio’s compliant employers are forced to pay more than their fair share to cover the deficit caused by employers who choose not to pay for workers’ compensation insurance.”

BWC notified delinquent employers by letter on Sept. 17 and again on Dec. 7 that they were in violation of Ohio law. The letter also provided instructions on how to reinstate coverage. BWC works with businesses to reinstate coverage through phone calls, letters and possible site visits.

BWC will certify the non-compliant employers’ delinquent premium amount to the Office of the Attorney General of Ohio, which assesses interest to lapsed accounts and enacts future legal action. Further, if an employee is injured on the job, while the business’ workers’ compensation coverage is lapsed, the employer must pay all costs related to the claim.

To access the list of top non-compliant employers, click here. To report a lapsed employer, or for more information about BWC and its services, visit ohiobwc.com or call 1-800-OHIOBWC.

Contact: Keary McCarthy
mccarthy.keary@bwc.state.oh.us

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