Monday, June 14, 2021

Ohio Industrial Commission To Return To In-Person Hearings

During the pandemic the Ohio Industrial Commission was able to successfully conduct hearings telephonically and through the use of web-based technology. This was a collaborative team effort and much credit goes to the hearing officers and practitioners who adapted to the rapidly changing environment and challenges.

The Industrial Commission was able to utilize these technologies and conduct remote hearings through enabling legislation that permitted boards, commissions, and agencies to conduct business and public hearings remotely. On June 30, 2021, the legislation that enabled the IC to conduct hearings remotely is expiring. Language was included in the omnibus budget bill that would have extended the ability to continue remote hearings through December 31, 2021. However, that language was removed, necessitating the return of in-person hearings. Therefore, in person hearings are scheduled to resume on July 6, 2021. In furtherance of this transition, it has been decided to not schedule hearings on Thursday, July 1, 2021 and Friday, July 2, 2021.

Hearing notices informing participants of the change in venue are being prepared and will start being sent out later this week. THE NOTICES WILL PERMIT THE PARTIES AND REPRESENTATIVES TO APPEAR AND PARTICIPATE EITHER IN-PERSON OR VIA Webex. The IC will communicate additional information as decisions and plans are finalized.

As always, the Industrial Commission appreciates your hard work and ability to adjust to the continuous changes brought about by this pandemic.