Massachusetts Worker’s Comp Insurance Rate Hike Nixed

Massachusetts’ insurance commissioner has approved a settlement eliminating a proposed increase in workers’ compensation insurance rates.

Attorney General Martha Coakley’s argued against the planning increase, which would have hiked rates by an average of 7.7 percent across the state.

Coakley called the proposed increase “totally unjustified” and said it would have hit small businesses hard at a time when the state is grappling with high unemployment.

Coakley, who is also a Democratic candidate for governor, said Friday’s settlement will end up saving Massachusetts employers a total of $75 million.

Massachusetts businesses are required to purchase workers compensation insurance to provide coverage for expenses and lost wages of workers injured on the job.

Rates for workers compensation insurance are set at least every other year in an administrative rate hearing