Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has requested the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors approve a projected $1 billion dividend for Ohio businesses. If adopted, this would increase the total amount paid to private and public employers under his administration to $10.2 billion, marking the fifth major dividend since 2019.
Governor DeWine emphasized the state's economic health, saying, “Ohio employers have a bright future ahead. Our state continues to grow and be one of the best places to live, own a business, and have a family.” BWC Administrator Stephanie McCloud added that if approved, "BWC will have paid employers more in dividends than employers have paid in premiums under this administration."
This proposed dividend, equaling approximately 90% of premiums paid in policy year 2022, is attributed to BWC’s strong financial management and investment returns. Ohio employers are also benefiting from the lowest rates in over 65 years, including a recent 1 percent rate reduction effective July 1, 2026, saving private employers $10 million.
To be eligible for this dividend, employers must complete their 2022 policy year true-up or resolve any lapsed status by August 28, 2026. The BWC Board is expected to consider the approval at its upcoming August meeting.