Resources

IRS Releases FAQs Regarding Educational Assistance Programs

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently issued frequently asked questions (FAQs) providing general information on educational assistance programs under Section 127 of the Internal Revenue…

Employer Considerations: Coverage of Gender-Affirming Care

In Lange v. Houston County, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that it was a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act…

HHS Updates HIPAA FAQs to Address Cybersecurity Incident Involving Change Healthcare

On May 31, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) updated its frequently asked questions (FAQs) to…

How to Exit a PEO: A Guide for Businesses

Exiting a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) can be a significant milestone for businesses experiencing growth and looking to regain control over their operations. The process can…

Law Alert: Cook County and Chicago Midyear Updates

Several new and updated laws take effect in Cook County and Chicago on July 1, 2024. Keep reading for more details. LOCAL MINIMUM WAGE INCREASES…

What Is Ordinance or Law Coverage?

Ordinance or law coverage is an important part of homeowners insurance that helps cover the cost of bringing your home up to current building codes…

Sewer Backup Coverage and Prevention Tips

A sewer backup issue in your home can lead to serious consequences—including clogged pipes, contaminated water, fire hazards and property damage caused by sewage buildup…

The Importance of Service Line Coverage

There are a lot of property risks to keep in mind if you’re a homeowner. But have you thought about the ones that might be…

How the DOL’s New Overtime Rule Could Affect Employee Benefits

A recent U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) final rule increases the salary thresholds used to decide whether executive, administrative and professional (EAP) employees are exempt…

Annual PCORI Payments Due by July 31, 2024

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance issuers and self-insured plan sponsors to remit Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are…

Illinois Releases Final Rules for Paid Leave for All Workers Act

The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has released its final rules for the state’s Paid Leave for All Workers Act (the Act), which took effect…

DOL Releases Gag Clause Attestation Resources for 2024

On May 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released various resources to assist health plans and health insurance issuers in annually submitting their…

New HIPAA Rule Will Require Changes to Privacy Notices

On April 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a final rule that strengthens the HIPAA Privacy Rule by prohibiting…

DOL Publishes Guidance on AI-related Wage and Hour Risks

On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) published Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) No. 2024-1 on the utilization…

AI – a Bigger Opportunity or Threat?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative technology that simulates human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. These processes include learning, reasoning, and self-correction. Specific…

Enhancing Workforce Well-Being: Key Insights from The Horton Group’s Webinar on Wellness and Population Health

Wellness and population health programs are pivotal in boosting employee engagement, productivity, and retention, which are more important than ever in today’s evolving workplace dynamics.

Applicability Timeline for Section 1557 Final Rule

Action Steps The final rule is likely to trigger additional lawsuits. As a result, plan administrators and issuers should monitor all legal developments in consultation…

Compliance Overview: FAQs on Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Final Rule

Action Steps The final rule will likely trigger additional lawsuits. As a result, plan administrators and issuers should monitor all legal developments in consultation with…

Overview of the EEOC’s Guidance on Workplace Harassment

Highlights On April 29, 2024, the EEOC published final guidance on harassment in the workplace. The new guidance clarifies the EEOC’s positions on the application…

IRS Releases Excepted Benefit HRA Limit for 2025

The IRS has announced the inflation-adjusted limit for excepted benefit health reimbursement arrangements (EBHRAs) for plan years starting on or after January 1, 2025.

FTC Addresses Garden Leave Under the New Noncompete Rule

The new Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rule banning noncompetition agreements between employers and employees raises the issue of garden leave and when it is acceptable…

How to Plan for the FTC’s Noncompete Ban

On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted to issue a final rule that would prevent employers from enforcing or entering into noncompete…

Key Trends in Illinois Workers’ Compensation: Rising Indemnity Benefits and the Impact on Experience Mod

A recent study by the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) reveals key trends in indemnity benefits and medical payments in Illinois for 2022. The findings…

Four Reasons for Private Equity Firms to Consider a Captive Insurance Program

Despite some initial reluctance, there are compelling reasons for private equity firms to seriously consider integrating captive insurance programs into their risk management arsenal.