As an employee in Ohio, you think you’re covered in the case of injury. What’s important to remember is that your employer has to pay for workers’ compensation by law, but it may not extend to you outside the state. Fortunately, that fact may be changing in the near future.
The workers’ compensation system in Ohio is changing, and that can mean good things for employees who may be hurt on the job. At the end of 2014, it’s clear that changes need to be made, and those that are being looked into can benefit employers heavily. For instance, did you know that as an employee from another state working in Ohio, you could be asked to stop work due to the fact that other states won’t recognize Ohio’s workers’ compensation coverage?
To fix this issue, a 2008 solution was to segregate out-of-state payrolls and to have an employer get private insurance for the employees in those situations. That’s not viable in the long term, as it can be expensive for businesses, and that means it’s harder for those from Ohio to work elsewhere with their companies. To help employers, the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has decided to offer limited other states’ coverage. That means that the coverage purchased in Ohio could be used out of state as well, helping employers better cover their employees for potential injuries. This is particularly important for those who travel or work out of state, like contractors.
As an employee, knowing that you’re covered by your employer in the case of an emergency or injury is vital. With these changes coming in 2015, you may be better protected, which is the best thing that could happen.
Source: SBN Online, “What’s on the horizon in 2015 for Ohio’s workers’ compensation system?” Dec. 24, 2014