Am. H. B. No. 2025-2026 seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code concerning the Bureau of Workers' Compensation, focusing on the governance structure and operational efficiency of the Bureau. The bill proposes changes to the composition and appointment process of the Bureau's board of directors, which will now consist of eleven members appointed by the governor, with specified qualifications to ensure representation from employees, employers, investment experts, and the public. A new provision mandates that board members who miss nine or more meetings within a year will forfeit their position, with vacancies filled through the original appointment process. Additionally, the bill outlines the board's responsibilities, including establishing administrative policies and submitting annual reports, while also allowing for contracts with independent firms for actuarial and investment advice. Am. H. B. No. 81 introduces significant changes to the workers' compensation system, including the establishment of a new customer advocacy office to replace the ombudsperson system, aimed at assisting claimants and employers. The bill clarifies the definition of "prosthetic device" and allows for the reimbursement of costs associated with prosthetics due to work-related injuries. It also sets a one-year limit for submitting medical or vocational rehabilitation services for payment and outlines the claims process for employees and their dependents, including the requirement to sign an election form to receive compensation under Ohio law. Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language regarding professional employer organizations and enhances the authority of the Bureau to conduct inspections and investigations, ultimately aiming to streamline processes and improve workplace safety regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4121.12, 4121.121, 4121.13, 4123.44, 4123.52, 4123.54, 4123.57, 4123.66, 4125.07, 4133.10, 4167.01, 4167.10, 5145.163, 4167.25, 4167.27, 4167.28
As Reported By House Committee: 4121.12, 4121.121, 4121.13, 4121.41, 4121.45, 4123.44, 4123.52, 4123.54, 4123.57, 4123.66, 4125.07, 4133.10, 4167.01, 4167.10, 5145.163, 4167.25, 4167.27, 4167.28
As Re-referred to House Committee: 4121.12, 4121.121, 4121.13, 4121.41, 4121.45, 4123.44, 4123.52, 4123.54, 4123.57, 4123.66, 4125.07, 4133.10, 4167.01, 4167.10, 5145.163, 4167.25, 4167.27, 4167.28
As Passed By House: 4121.12, 4121.121, 4121.13, 4121.41, 4121.45, 4123.44, 4123.52, 4123.54, 4123.57, 4123.66, 4125.07, 4133.10, 4167.01, 4167.10, 5145.163, 4167.25, 4167.27, 4167.28