"This final rule implements requirements of the Administrative Simplification subtitle of [HIPAA and the ACA] ... Specifically, this final rule adopts standards for health care claims attachments transactions, which will support health care claims transactions, and a standard for electronic signatures to be used in conjunction with health care claims attachments transactions."  MORE >>

"The American Bar Association’s 2025 FMLA litigation summary reveals four key trends that should inform how you handle employee leave. Interference Claims: Granting Leave Does Not End Your Obligations"  MORE >>

"Nearly two-thirds of employees reported cost as their top priority during open enrollment ... The focus on cost leads many employees to choose lower-premium plans with higher deductibles; skip supplemental coverage; or scale back voluntary benefits, a pattern identified ... as an 'affordability trap.' "  MORE >>

"[E]mployees of older generations report costs as their top workplace benefits priority during open enrollment, with most choosing lower-premium plans with higher deductibles or staying with plans that offer bare-minimum coverage options.... The study highlights the need to emphasize real-dollar scenarios for participants, especially in communications tactics. This includes illustrating premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums in routine and high-cost years."  MORE >>

" 'Employer-sponsored coverage isn't one small part of the health care system -- it is the American health care system,' said Dan Aronowitz, assistant secretary of labor and head of the Employee Benefits Security Administration.... With premiums for families covered under employer plans exceeding $26,000 annually, Aronowitz said, 'We are spending more on health care and getting less in return.' "  MORE >>

"Despite cost pressure, companies are doubling down on what consistently works: wellness programs, which have become both a cost mitigation tool and retention lever. Employers are intensifying investment in mental health access, preventative care, and fertility. In a year defined by precision, wellness is one of few areas where benefits leaders see both measurable ROI and meaningful employee value."  MORE >>

"Brokers said the top ways carriers could support employers include enhancing enrollment tools and communication materials, communicating the value proposition for voluntary benefits, and offering more customizable product options.... Brokers expect strong growth in core and supplemental benefits, reflecting broader budget optimism.... Employers value the impact benefits have on morale more than brokers do.... Brokers believe education support from carriers could help boost employee adoption of supplemental health benefits.... Administrative complexity is a challenge to the adoption of supplemental health benefits."  MORE >>

"A Mercer poll of private employer-sponsored health plans estimates that premiums could increase by nearly 9%, on average, this year alone.... This would be one of the most significant increases of its kind in years. That's a big problem, and one that cannot simply be fixed. It can, however, be contained. Many of those sounding the alarm also have the tools to corral these runaway premium increases: employers."  MORE >>