OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — A major overhaul of the workers' compensation system in Washington is already helping keep costs down for businesses, state officials said Tuesday while disclosing a major rate increase isn't needed to keep finances stable.

The Department of Labor & Industries said it's proposing an average rate hike of 2.5 percent for 2012. The agency could have been pushing for a double-digit increase this year if it wasn't for changes made in the Legislature.

Officials had been considering an increase of up to 8 percent as recently as this week to restore depleted reserves but went with a lower number amid concerns from businesses.

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