Delaware governor John Carney has signed SB 306 into law to update the workplace safety programme in the state, lowering criteria in insurance premiums to participate in the initiative.
The new legislation, driven by Delaware insurance commissioner Trinidad Navarro and the Delaware Insurance Department, aims to overhaul the Delaware Workplace Safety Programme (WSP) and the Experience Rating Plan (ERP).
The new bill eliminates the previous requirement for employers to pay a minimum of US$3,161 annually in workers’ compensation premiums to participate in the WSP.
Eligibility for the WSP is now linked to the recently updated ERP, filed by the Delaware Compensation Rating Bureau (DCRB) and approved by the state insurance commissioner.
Under the revised system, employers with US$5,000 or more in Delaware-only workers' compensation premiums over a three-year period will automatically qualify for the WSP.
This change is expected to increase WSP participation by an estimated 2,120 employers, representing a 15 per cent growth in the programme.
Approximately 1,320 of these newly qualified employers are projected to actively participate in the programme, promoting safer work environments throughout the state.
“SB 306 is a testament to Delaware's unwavering commitment to creating safer work environments and reducing the financial burden on businesses,” says Navarro.
“By expanding WSP eligibility and aligning it with the ERP, we are not only promoting safety but also delivering substantial cost savings for employers.”
In 2023, the WSP saved participating companies in Delaware a total of US$5.6 million.
With the move, the state expects to provide employers with strong incentives to prioritise safety in their workplaces.
The programme will also help employers improve safety practices through regular testing and inspections, ensuring safer and more productive work environments.
Bill Taylor, president and CEO of the DCRB, comments: “We urge insurance agents, brokers, and insurers to spread the word about the benefits of the updated ERP and aligned WSP. This is a unique opportunity to enhance workplace safety while reducing insurance premiums.”
