"The [final rule] represents the most significant procedural overhaul of the IDR system since its launch in 2022, addressing the core dysfunctions that have plagued the process: an overwhelming volume of disputes, inconsistent eligibility screening, administrative fee structures that incentivized high-volume bulk filings, and a lack of standardized procedures. The rule aims to streamline the review process and enhance its auditability."  MORE >>

"Recently, the IRS, DOL and HHS released certain annual adjustments for 2027 plan years. The adjustments include the largest one-year increase to the [ACA] out-of-pocket maximum (OOPM) in more than a decade -- a $1,400 jump for self-only coverage. High-deductible health plan (HDHP) thresholds and health savings account (HSA) contribution limits rose modestly, and the excepted benefit health reimbursement arrangement (EBHRA) limit was increased by $50. The current 2026 limits and new 2027 limits are illustrated in the table below."  MORE >>

"The revised rules formally recognize joint employment and provide that all joint employers are responsible for compliance with the Ordinance.... The revised rules clarify that non-exempt employees accrue Paid Leave and Paid Sick Leave on all hours worked, including overtime hours.... The updated rules clarify that when employees continue working for a successor employer following a sale, merger, transfer, or other business transaction, accrued and unused leave must be preserved and transferred."  MORE >>

"In addition to providing paid leave for illness and medical needs of the employee or family members, the law also covers certain domestic abuse and criminal conduct, such as sexual assault and stalking. Such 'safe leave' is available when an employee or an employee's family member requires time off to access victim's aid, relocate, obtain medical care or counseling, or seek legal advice relating to the abuse or criminal conduct."  MORE >>

"In their opposition, Defendants argue that the eight challenged provisions of the 2027 NBPP final rule are authorized by the statute and are justified by current data and market conditions to address significant market failures. In addition, Defendants further contend that emergency relief is unwarranted because the Plaintiffs lack standing and have failed to demonstrate irreparable harm." [City of Columbus v. Kennedy ('Columbus II'), No. 26-2215 (D. Md. complaint filed Jun. 3, 2026)]  MORE >>

"Lewandowski, like its sibling PBM cases, failed at the standing stage. But beneath that procedural outcome lies a developing framework of expectations and potential risk pathways. The complaints can shape what stakeholders believe plan fiduciaries should be doing, so plan fiduciaries should treat these dismissals not as 'wins,' but as warnings. Overall, these cases should encourage plan fiduciaries to understand their PBM arrangements, question conflicts and compensation, consider proactive steps, and remain updated with news and litigation." [Lewandowski v. Johnson & Johnson, No. 24-0671 (D.N.J. Nov. 26, 2025)]  MORE >>

"A well-managed audit ensures that only eligible dependents remain on the plan, helping reduce unnecessary plan and claims expenses and promoting fair distribution of benefits.... [D]ependent eligibility audits are a practical way for employers to strengthen plan integrity, manage costs, and support responsible benefits administration."  MORE >>

"In most cases, employees at age 65 have the option to remain in active coverage, enroll in Medicare, or both. Most age 65+ retirees should enroll in Medicare immediately upon retirement to avoid potential coverage gaps and late enrollment penalties."  MORE >>

"GAI holds promise to improve efficiency and professional services in tax practice. However, ethical obligations of competence, diligence, and confidentiality remain unchanged. By implementing robust use-management strategies and maintaining human supervision, tax professionals can harness AI's benefits while safeguarding reliability and public trust. As tax practitioners integrate GAI into their workflows, it is crucial to recognize that technology serves as a powerful tool, not a substitute for professional judgment. AI can streamline routine tasks, enhance research, and provide valuable insights, but final decisions must always rest with qualified professionals who understand the complexities of tax law and ethical standards. Practitioners must remain vigilant in reviewing what is produced by AI, validating its factual assertions and citations, and handling sensitive client data safely and securely in accordance with both federal and state regulations."  MORE >>

"Employer enthusiasm for artificial intelligence is outpacing employee willingness to use the technology as a tool as part of their benefits programs.... 83% of employers surveyed were interested in using AI to help workers better understand their benefits. Only 58% of employees surveyed said they would use AI for that purpose, and just 24% said they were currently doing so."  MORE >>