Response to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board’s Proposed Preliminary Rate Framework
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) is changing the way employer premiums are determined. While in some respects the Proposed Preliminary Rate Framework marks a positive change from the existing rate setting process, the Ontario chamber network is concerned that the new rate framework could increase the premium rates paid by employers and, subsequently, the cost of doing business in the province.
As such, we have collaborated with the OCC to provide the WSIB with a written submission outlining 10 recommendations that the WSIB and the Government of Ontario should adopt to mitigate the impact of the proposed reforms. Over 25 chambers of commerce and boards of trade signed on to the submission.
The OCC supports efforts to modernize the workers’ compensation system in Ontario. Building a 21st century workforce is a core component of the OCC’s five year Emerging Stronger economic agenda. Keeping the province’s economy firmly on the path from recovery to growth will require changes to the way government and its agencies work. Ontario needs a workers’ compensation system that is both responsive to labour market needs and fiscally sustainable.