"The Proposed AHP Rule does not reference PEOs or PEO-sponsored coverage, and accordingly, does not directly implicate or call into question a PEO's ability to sponsor health coverage. However, it does have the potential to significantly impact the coverage options available to small employers, and therefore could have a profound effect on PEOs as drafted.... Notably, ... the Proposed AHP Rule imposes fairly rigorous nondiscrimination requirements that may make it difficult for AHPs and their carriers (if the AHP is fully insured) to secure relatively preferential risk from the community-rated insurance markets or even manage the ongoing risk profile of the AHP long-term."  MORE >>