"The Departments have requested that the ERIC litigation be held in abeyance while the Departments reconsider the 2024 Final Rule, including whether to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking rescinding or modifying the regulation through notice and comment rulemaking. The Departments will not enforce the 2024 Final Rule or otherwise pursue enforcement actions, based on a failure to comply that occurs prior to a final decision in the litigation, plus an additional 18 months. This enforcement relief applies only with respect to those portions of the 2024 Final Rule that are new in relation to the 2013 final rule. The Departments note that MHPAEA's statutory obligations, as amended by the CAA, 2021, continue to have effect.... The Departments will also undertake a broader reexamination of each department's respective enforcement approach under MHPAEA, including those provisions amended by the CAA, 2021." [ERIC v. HHS, No. 25-0136 (D.D.C. complaint filed Jan. 17, 2025; HHS motion for abeyance filed May 12, 2025, granted May 12, 2025)]  MORE >>

"[T]he IRS is soliciting comments concerning Form 1094-B, Transmittal of Health Coverage Information Returns and Form 1095-B, Health Coverage.... Written comments should be received on or before [60 days after publication in the Federal Register, currently scheduled for May 16, 2025].... There is no change to the previously approved collection."  MORE >>

"The Bill repeals RSMo Sections 290.600 -- 290.642, which currently require the accrual of earned paid sick time for employees in Missouri.... The Bill modifies the applicability of certain wage and leave provisions for public employers.... [P]ending the Governor's signature, the Bill will take effect on August 28, 2025."  MORE >>

"If not overturned on appeal, this decision will result in the IRS and HHS having to create a new process for assessing ESRPs -- one in which HHS plays a more active role. It may also entitle employers assessed an ESRP previously to a refund of the amounts paid to the IRS." [Faulk Company, Inc. v. HHS, No. 24-0609 (N.D. Tex. Apr. 10, 2025)]  MORE >>

"Moving to a self-funded health plan requires planning and coordination.... [1] Develop a detailed transition plan and timeline. [2] Partner with a TPA to help design and administer the plan. [3] Evaluate stop-loss insurance options. [4] Define plan coverage and cost-sharing policies. [5] Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, and other regulations. [6] Train HR and benefits staff. [7] Communicate clearly with employees to support understanding and engagement."  MORE >>

"Should employers be considering primary care as the preferred 'front door' for employees to navigate their health benefits? ... [M]any employees are looking for help with everyday wellness. What are some actionable steps employers can take to help?.... We've all seen drug costs increase exponentially -- especially specialty drugs. How [can] organizations navigate these rising costs?.... What about options outside of a PBM?"  MORE >>

"If a broker operates a PPC that negotiates with PBMs on behalf of a plan, and receives direct or indirect compensation for those services, the transaction may fall within the scope of ERISA Section 406(a)'s prohibited transaction rules.... [S]ome employers may ultimately conclude that avoiding these types of arrangements altogether -- regardless of the strength of a potential exemption -- may be the safer course, especially if the risk of litigation outweighs the benefit of participation." [Cunningham v. Cornell Univ., No. 23-1007 (S.Ct. Apr. 17, 2025)]  MORE >>