"The DOL proposed rule (if finalized) and CAA 2026 encourage transparency and accountability between plan sponsors/fiduciaries and PBMs. With detailed initial and semiannual disclosures, drug-level pricing transparency, and enforceable audit rights, plan sponsors and fiduciaries can: [1] Compare PBM models and evaluate which approach delivers the best value. [2] Identify spread pricing exposure at the individual drug level. [3] Attempt to negotiate transparent pass-through compensation arrangements."  MORE >>

"This checklist helps employers understand their obligations and opportunities when an employee notifies them of a new dependent in their family. Questions often arise regarding possible election changes, beneficiary rights and organizational policies. This checklist captures common compliance issues and offers helpful suggestions to avoid complications down the road."  MORE >>

"In an amicus brief ... the ERISA Industry Committee and the American Benefits Council backed Compass Group's bid to appeal a Missouri federal judge's decision to grant class certification in a lawsuit challenging tobacco-use surcharges imposed through the company's health plan." [Mehlberg v. Compass Group USA, Inc., No. 24-4179 (W.D. Mo. Apr. 15, 2025; on appeal to 8th Cir. No. 26-8007)]  MORE >>

"Consumers and small businesses could face a substantial financial burden in 2027, as major health insurance providers officially submit rate requests seeking steep premium increases of up to 30%. Soaring medical service costs and the expiration of pandemic-era federal premium subsidies are driving the steep rate hike requests. Some state officials are pushing back on the rate hike proposals."  MORE >>

"The Comprehensive Paid Leave for Federal Employees Act ... would grant federal employees up to 12 weeks of paid family leave each year to attend to a serious health condition or to care for a spouse, child or parent. The measure would also cover absences needed to help a family member who is the survivor of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking, as well as to attend to a family member's deployment into active duty military service."  MORE >>

"HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz, MD [announced that] more than 500 hospitals have not complied with changes to price transparency requirements that took effect Jan. 1, with enforcement beginning April [1] The hospitals have received warning letters and, in some cases, requests for corrective action plans (CAPs) and have not heeded that communication, according to the announcement. The two leaders ... indicated there will be no additional grace period."  MORE >>