WASHINGTON STATE - The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries is proposing a nearly 5% increase in the rate that both employers and workers pay for workers' compensation next year.

The department stated that the proposed hike would help cover rising costs when a worker is injured on the job. If approved, this change would mean an additional $1.37 per week for each full-time employee, impacting both employers and workers.

Despite the proposed increase, it is less than the projected 2026 claim costs. To manage this difference, the agency plans to use the Workers' Comp Contingency Reserve.

Residents of Washington will have the chance to provide their input before a final decision is made by Labor and Idustries. A public hearing is scheduled in Spokane Valley for October 29 at

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