OKLAHOMA NOTES

GAYLON STACY execufve vice president

HE STATE Board of Property and Casualty Rates has been petitioned by the National Council on Compensation Insurance for a 41.990 increase in workers compensation insurance rates in Oklahoma. The petition was filed on behalf of private insurance carriers.

The petition has generated no small arnount of alarm among owners of businesses statewide, An organized group of representatives of business groups protested the proposed rate hike at a public hearing. The Oklahoma Lumbermen's Association was represented at this hearing.

Three years ago, after long and hotlydebated battle, the Oklahoma Legislature passed legislation which permits employers with similar interests to form self-insured groups for workers compensation insurance purposes. Several such groups have been formed, including one by the Oklahoma Lumbermen's Association. Such programs provide up front discounts and, depending on claims experience, can generate dividends for participants.

Experienced observers believe the full 41.990 increase will not be granted by the Property and Casualty Rate Board. However, past history has demonstrated the likelihood that approximately half of the request will be approved.

Now is an excellent time for lumber and building products dealers to explore the advantages of participating in a selfinsured group for workers compensation insurance.