Buehrer Sworn in as BWC Administrator

Steve Buehrer was sworn in in Mid-January as the Administrator/CEO of the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation.

He vowed to an audience of BWC staff, business leaders, labor representatives and representatives of Ohio's compensation system that their input will be expected and important in making workers' compensation a compliment to Ohio's overall business climate.

"Your voice will be heard," Buehrer said. "Change is not always easy, but it's vital to our state's future. We must put Ohio first at this time. The door is open, we need your feedback." Buehrer is a former state senator and an attorney.

In his remarks, Buehrer stressed the importance of service to the two customers of the bureau, injured workers and employers. He told the BWC staff they are pivotal in developing ways to better serve these customers.

Buehrer has been a practicing attorney and operated a small business with his wife, Cathy. In addition, he has extensive experience in state government including work in the offices of the late Congressman Paul Gillmor and former Ohio House Speaker Jo Ann Davidson.

He also served as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Ohio Bureau of Employment Services, Deputy Director with the Ohio Department of Administrative Services and was the BWC's Chief of Human Resources from 1995 to 1998.

For LCSC Members and Associates who specialize in safety, health and worker's compensation, the 2011 Ohio Safety Congress and Expo is a perfect connection to Ohio's safety conscious business community. More than 5,000 employers and employees representing 36 Ohio industries will attend to shop services, industries supplies and safety equipment and gear. Product or services providers will have the opportunity to connect with Ohio business representatives to market products and services. For more information, visit the BWC web site.

Attendance - 01/21/11-Prioritizing Your Safety Programs

January BWC Board Meeting Cancelled

The January meeting of the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation Board of Directors was cancelled. It is expected the BWC board nominating committee will meet soon to provide candidate recommendations to Ohio Governor John Kasich to appoint four people to seats on the board that currently are vacant.

"I'm confident there is a strong pool of candidates who will represent the interests of Ohio's workers' compensation community, " said BWC administrator Steve Buehrer. "I look forward to working side-by-side with the BWC Board of Directors in changing the course of the state's economic climate through effective decisions that will positively impact the care of injured workers and the business success of Ohio employers."

The BWC Board of Directors was created by the 127th Ohio General Assembly in house Bill 100, which directs a nominating committee to submit four applicants to the governor for each vacant seat.. The board is comprised of 11 members.

The next meeting of the BWC Board of Directors is schedule for February 24.