The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) voted on February 23, 2018, to lower private employers’ premium rates an average of 12 percent beginning July 1, 2018. This will result in savings of $163.5 million over the current year’s premiums.
In support of the cuts, BWC Administrator/CEO Sarah Morrison stated, “The 86,000 claims allowed last year were the lowest number of claims in at least 20 years. […] BWC has also increased efforts to promote safe workplaces, and employers are recognizing that investing in safety is good business.” That said, employers should note that premiums will still be based on recent claim history and whether the employer participates in any BWC discount programs.