"In order for the physical presence requirement to be satisfied by a plan representative, the following must occur: [1] Live audio-video technology which allows for direct interaction between the individual and the plan representative, [2] The individual signing the election must present a valid photo ID ... during the live audio-video conference, [3] The individual must transmit a copy of the signed document by fax or electronic means directly to the plan representative on the same date it was signed, and [4] After receiving the signed document, the plan representative must acknowledge that the signature was witnessed and transmit the signed document with acknowledgment back to the individual."  MORE >>

32 presentation slides. Topics include: [1] Who is a Fiduciary? [2] Fiduciary functions & duties; [3] Fiduciary breach lawsuits; [4] Limiting liability; [5] Illustrative examples; [6] Proprietary funds; [7] Index funds; [8] Hypothetical illustration.  MORE >>

"The [DOL] will factor in other agency rulemakings, like the [SEC's] Regulation Best Interest, as it crafts its fiduciary rule, Ali Khawar, acting assistant secretary for [EBSA] said ... As to when Labor's new fiduciary rule will land at the Office of Management and Budget for review, Khawar declined to offer a date."  MORE >>

"While many PEPs are sponsored by large financial institutions with significant expertise in retirement plan administration, certain other firms (such as franchisors, gig economy employers, joint venture enterprises, private equity firms, and smaller financial services companies) may also wish to consider sponsoring a PEP as another way to streamline benefit offerings and to provide a valuable tool for their franchisees, independent contractors, portfolio companies, or customers and clients (as applicable)."  MORE >>

"[T]he 'Employee and Retiree Access to Justice Act' [HR 7740] ... seeks to ban arbitration and discretionary clauses in employer-sponsored benefit plans governed by [ERISA] ... thereby forcing plan disputes into the judicial system[.] [T]his legislation, if passed, would dramatically alter the long-standing standard of review by courts when a plan participant or beneficiary is denied retirement, health, or other benefits under an ERISA-regulated plan."  MORE >>