Lawmakers move to block ACA union exemption
Republican senators introduced a bill this week that would prevent the exclusion of multi-employer health plans from a $63 reinsurance fee that the ACA imposes on each enrollee.
Compliance
‘Virtually no downside’ to FSA ruling, experts say
Flexible spending account advocates expect most employers to embrace rollover provision.
OSHA proposes publishing worker injury data
More than a million worksites could be affected if the Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration changes who submits work-related injury data and how, but is this just another example of regulation by shaming? Meanwhile, OSHA has led the charge attacking employer safety plans which measure their success based on this same injury data.
Even with non-union workers, watch your social media policy
One HR source says the National Labor Relations Board is on a crusade against aggressive social media policies.
Benefits Think Complete year-end nondiscrimination testing ASAP
For HR professionals, mid-year nondiscrimination testing needs to be at the top of that list. Waiting to test until the completion of the year can have severe negative consequences.
ACA mandates delayed, but reporting requirements are crucial
These two new reporting requirements are in addition to the current requirement to report the cost of coverage on Form W-2.
ACA changes: Thinking ahead to 2014
Employee benefits attorneys share how employers facing Affordable Care Act reforms can think outside the box for health plan changes in 2014.
Senate OKs nationwide LGBT workplace equality; House dubious
The Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would ban workplace and hiring bias on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, finally passed the Senate today. Its future in the GOP-controlled House is less certain.
Whats all the buzz about grandfathering?
A debrief on the types of changes that trigger the loss of grandfathered status, the concept at the center of the if you like your plan, you can keep it issue.
Wisdom of legal plans questioned
Broker warns offering too many voluntary benefits can lead to decision paralysis.
Boiling down the ACA
In this list of key Obamacare provisions effective for the plan year beginning this January, which ones apply to you, and are you ready?
Supreme Court to decide statute of limitations for ERISA disability claim
On November 18, 2010, Julie Heimeshoff filed her lawsuit against Hartford and Wal-Mart, claiming that defendants had violated ERISA by failing to provide long-term disability benefits.
Employee benefits a possible debt deal negotiation tactic
As Congress enters its final day to solve the debt ceiling and shutdown debacle before Thursdays deadline, employee benefits insiders say there could be some last-minute changes that surprise the industry.
Shutdown crippling guidance and regulation for employee benefits
Eleven days into the federal government shutdown, employee benefits attorneys assess the short-term and long-term potential implications for your business and benefits strategy.
Cigna Tells Brokers to Halt Certain HIX Sales
Cigna has instructed brokers to halt selling insurance to individuals who are subsidy-eligible through its federal health care exchange broker portals.
E&O and the ACA: Are you liable?
Your errors and omissions insurance might not cover what you think it does.
State tax issues remain following DOMA decision
IRS, DOL issue guidance following Supreme Court decision on Defense of Marriage Act.
5 important documents that appear in employment lawsuits
Success or defeat in employment litigation hinges on these five documents
How the government shutdown will impair your benefits business
The lights are out at the federal government, but what implications does the shutdown have for employers who have daily business to pursue with the federal government and agencies? EBN looked closely at employment and benefits-related issues hampered by the shutdown. Consider yourself lucky not to be the single employee left handling labor management issues as is the case at one mostly darkened federal agency.
Exchanges debut as early hurdles may slow signups
The three-year effort to open the Affordable Care Act health insurance exchanges culminates today, beset by logistical delays and efforts by Republicans to shut down the U.S. government in protest.
By
Alex Wayne