The Department of Labor and Industries said Wednesday it is proposing a 3 percent increase in 2009 workers’ compensation rates. They say average premiums would go up by just under 2 cents per hour worked.

L&I says the proposed increase is an average for all Washington employers. Some employers’ rates might be higher, others’ might be lower. The rate increase would bring in an additional $57 million.

Public hearings are scheduled for late October in six locations around the state. More information is available on L&I’s Web site at lni.wa.gov.