Ohio Businesses File Suit on Workers’ Comp Rate-Setting System

Ohio businesses concerned about the cost of state workers’ compensation insurance for injured workers are trying to force a change in the way premiums are set for employers.

A lawsuit filed in December was heard in court on Aug. 5 in Cleveland. It seeks an injunction barring the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation from using a rate-setting system that the lawsuit claims plays favorites.

At issue is the practice of providing premium discounts of up to 90 percent for business groups with records of workplace safety. The lawsuit contends that businesses outside such groups are subsidizing the injured-worker system.

The agency says it has worked to make premiums more fair and accurate.

At this writing it is unclear if a ruling was handed down.