NEWS (11/7/2017): Counties’ fund announces largest dividend in its nearly 40-year history

Members of the Michigan Counties Workers’ Compensation Fund (MCWCF) will receive $3.1 million in premium dividends this fall, the largest single-year dividend in the fund’s nearly 40-year history.

These dividends result from “surplus” funds from policy premiums paid by members, but not utilized due to the fund’s excellent claims management and innovative loss prevention strategies, explained Timothy K. McGuire, the fund’s administrator.

“We send out so much material on how to protect employees – webinars, email blasts, newsletters, on-site consultant visits – that I’m sure members get a little annoyed,” McGuire said. “Of course, all that work pays off at the end of the year when we get return so many dollars to them in dividends. As we did last year, we are issuing a record dividend – and maintaining our strong financial history that goes back four decades.

The fund, a nonprofit, member-owned pool, was started in 1979. Its 83 members stretch from Gogebic County in the western Upper Peninsula to Monroe County in Southeast Michigan. In addition to county governments, the fund insures medical care facilities, housing commissions, road commissions, transport authorities, community mental health agencies and two villages.

The dividend announcement comes on the heels of another milestone for the fund: passing the $100,000 in total grants issued under its Loss Prevention Grants Program.

Since its adoption in 2014, the program has issued about $125,000 in grants to nearly 50 member entities to pay for ergonomic office equipment, officer protective gear and other items to boost employee safety.

LANSING, MI: In a continued commitment to employee safety, the Michigan Counties Workers’ Compensation Fund (MCWCF) proudly announced the recipients of its 2023 Loss Prevention Grants. Six deserving projects were awarded, totaling $15,700.65 in funds to enhance workplace safety across various counties in Michigan. The focus remains on initiatives that enhance employee safety and reduce workplace accidents and injuries.

The grants for 2023 cover a diverse range of safety measures, reflecting the MCWCF’s dedication to supporting its member organizations. From the repair of safety railings to the provision of specialized personal protection equipment for severe weather patrols, each initiative aims to create a safe working environment.

Here’s an overview of the 2023 grant recipients and their projects:

Branch County: The repair of safety railing around the Court House Building received approval, with a grant of $1,925.00
Delta County: Aiming for ergonomic excellence, the replacement of old office chairs with new Ergonomic Correct Chairs was approved, securing $1,229.95.
Huron-Clinton Metroparks: The police department in Huron Metro Parks is set to benefit from specialized personal protection equipment during severe cold weather patrols next winter, thanks to the $2,546.00 grant.
Oceana County: An extensive initiative encompassing ergonomic chairs, sit/stand systems, anti-fatigue mats, lumbar support, ergonomic keyboards, and mouse received approval, with a grant of $5,000.00.
Roscommon County: Armor Express Bravo Cut Traverse Extend Carrier for Sheriff Officers, a crucial addition to law enforcement gear, received $255.00 in grant support.
Livingston County: The purchase of CO Detectors for First in Scene for Paramedics 1st Responders was approved, ensuring that responders are alerted to potential lethal gas levels on entry. This project secured a grant of $5,000.00.

Building on the success of the 2022 grant program, which awarded over $8,500 to two Michigan counties, MCWCF Administrator Tim McGuire expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing initiative. “Our commitment to workplace safety goes beyond financial support. It’s about empowering individuals to recognize and address potential hazards in their work environment.” McGuire shared.

Unlike the previous grant structure, the 2023 program operates year-round, allowing members to submit financing requests at any time. A committee of three MCWCF trustees reviews applications and makes funding decisions based on specific needs or potential impacts on the organization.

“Risk management is an ongoing practice,” McGuire emphasized. “The year-round grant program allows us to respond promptly to safety needs identified by our members, reinforcing the proactive nature of risk management.”

The MCWCF’s commitment to safety has proven beneficial, with claims reductions playing a pivotal role. “The dividends returned to our members reflect the program’s success in reducing claims and promoting a culture of safety. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.” McGuire highlighted.

Launched in 2014, the Loss Prevention Grants Program has supported various safety initiatives, ranging from police officer vests to ergonomic desks. Since its inception, MCWCF has awarded more than $345,000 to its members.

MCWCF remains dedicated to providing competitive workers’ compensation insurance to public agencies throughout Michigan. Its membership includes counties, medical care facilities, housing commissions, transit agencies, villages, mental health authorities, and other specialty county or multi-county endeavors.

NEWS (11/7/2017): Counties’ fund announces largest dividend in its nearly 40-year history

Application for Loss Prevention Grant

Michigan Counties Workers’ Compensation Fund Announces 2023 Grant Recipients Ensuring Employee Safety

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