Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has proposed a 3 percent increase in 2009 workers’ compensation rates. Average premiums would go up by just under 2 cents per hour worked.
The proposed increase, which would bring in an additional $57 million, is an average for all Washington employers. Individual employers could see their rates go up or down, depending on their recent claims history and any changes in the frequency and cost of claims in their industry. L&I has published online and will soon send to employers the proposed 2009 rate tables by industry.
Washington’s workers’ compensation system is made up of three funds that provide benefits when workers are hurt on the job.
Under L&I’s proposal, the Accident Fund rate would increase 1.8 percent. Employers pay premiums in this fund. The Medical Aid Fund rate would go up by 3.2 percent, and the Supplemental Pension Fund rate would increase 7 percent. Employers and workers contribute equal premiums for the latter two funds.
Washington is the only state where workers pay a substantial portion of premiums. Next year, their share would increase slightly but will remain just more than 25 percent if the proposed rates are adopted.
Final 2009 rates will be adopted in late November following six public hearings.
For information, visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/.