Rep. Brennan Encouraged by BWC Rate Reductions, Advocates for Mental Health Coverage

COLUMBUS —  State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) today expressed hope that the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) will soon expand benefits to cover mental health injuries even when no physical injury is present, following the agency’s recent announcement of premium rate reductions for public and private employers.

Effective January 1, 2026, public employers in Ohio received a 1 percent reduction in BWC premium rates, expected to save nearly $2M over the course of the year. Private employers also benefited from a 6 percent rate reduction that began July 1, 2025, projected to save approximately $60M.

“These rate reductions are positive news for Ohio employers and a sign that workplace safety efforts are paying off,” said Rep. Brennan. “At the same time, it is critical that the BWC continue evolving to meet the needs of Ohio workers. I remain hopeful that mental health injuries, even those without a corresponding physical injury, will soon be recognized and covered by BWC benefits, providing essential support to employees when they need it most.”

BWC Administrator and CEO Stephanie McCloud highlighted that the rate reductions reflect Ohio’s commitment to maintaining fair and sustainable costs for employers while promoting workplace safety and claims management. Ohio now boasts the lowest average premium rates in more than 65 years and is ranked fifth-lowest nationally, a remarkable shift from 2008, when it was the third-highest.

Rep. Brennan emphasized that expanding BWC coverage to include mental health injuries would complement these rate reductions by ensuring workers are protected in every aspect of their well-being.

“Workers are the backbone of Ohio’s economy,” concluded Rep. Brennan. “Providing comprehensive support, including for mental health, benefits employers and employees alike, creating safer, healthier workplaces across our state.”