Governor John R. Kasich, Bureau of Workers' Compensation Administrator Steve Buehrer, and Ohio business leaders kick-off the distribution of the New Workers' Compensation Rebates at Cafe' Napolitana in Columbus.

Joining the governor are:

Palmo Aracri, owner, Cafe Napolitana in Columbus

Sally Mowell, Workers' Compensation Administrator, DMAX in Moraine

Mike Archer, President & CEO, Pioneer Pipe, Inc. in Marietta

Nick Gallo, Vice President, Steel & Alloy Specialist, Inc. in McDonald

Patricia Symonette, Workers' Compensation/risk manager, Cleveland Municipal School District

Mayor Richard Norton, City of Green in Summit County

Mayor Mike Bell, City of Toledo in Lucas County

The $1 billion rebate is part of a three part plan to bring BWC to within net asset guidelines established by its independent Board of Directors.

The plan also changes BWC's successful Safety Grant Program, including tripling the amount of money available from $5 million to $15 million to support expanded statewide efforts to promote workplace safety and encourage further investment in protecting Ohio's workers.

BWC will also now match every employer dollar with three dollars.