Executive Order Directs Federal Agencies to Improve Health Care Price Transparency (March)
On Feb. 25, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order (EO) titled
Making America Healthy Again by Empowering
Patients With Clear, Accurate, and Actionable Healthcare Pricing Information. By making more meaningful price information
available to patients, this EO aims to promote a more competitive, innovative, affordable and higher-quality health care system.
HR Brief – Newly Passed Legislation Modifies ACA Reporting Requirements HR Brief – (March)
At the end of 2024, Congress passed two new laws, the Paperwork Burden Reduction Act and the Employer Reporting Improvement Act. These laws eased the Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting requirements for employers and set new limits on the IRS’ assessment of “pay-or-play” penalties, among other changes.
Benefits Buzz – ERISA Fiduciary Breach Claims Dismissed in Prescription Drug Lawsuit (March)
On Jan. 24, 2025, a U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey dismissed two claims in a class-action lawsuit filed against Johnson & Johnson (J&J), which alleged that the company breached its fiduciary duties under ERISA by mismanaging its prescription drug benefits plan and costing the plan and its participants millions of dollars due to higher out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs and higher premiums, among other things.
The Power of Protein(March)
Protein is having a moment, and it’s for good reason. While some focus on it for muscle-building, others view it from a weightloss perspective. Regardless of personal goals, protein is a macronutrient essential for body function. It is made up of many building blocks called amino acids and is fundamental for good health.
View and download the latest Live Well, Work Well newsletter
Career Elevator: The Importance of Peer-to-Peer Praise (November)
Fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture is more crucial than ever. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through peer-to-peer praise. Recognizing and appreciating colleagues’ efforts can significantly impact both individual and team performance.
A Workhuman survey found that 41% of employees want to be recognized by a peer,surpassing those who want to be recognized by their managers.
In the Loop – November
Report Shows More Employers Are Adapting Pay Transparency Practices
States and localities have been adding pay transparency requirements since 2021, with even more set to go into effect. Effective Oct. 1, 2024, Maryland employers must disclose certain wage range information in all public and internal job postings. Furthermore, Illinois, Vermont and Minnesota are adding pay transparency rules that will be implemented in 2025.
How, Where and When to Vote in Upcoming Elections
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. If you plan to vote, you must register to become a voter. Every state requires this except North Dakota. Some states allow you to register on the day you vote; others may require advance registration.
Benefits and Me: Maximizing Your Open Enrollment (November)
Did you know that nearly 7 in 10 employees spend 30 minutes or fewer reviewing their open enrollment benefits options?
Unfortunately, that’s far less than most Americans’ daily social media time. Open enrollment is crucial for making informed decisions about your health care and benefits. To maximize this period, start by thoroughly reviewing all available plan options and understanding the specifics. This includes examining coverage details, costs and any changes from the previous year. It’s also important to consider your current and anticipated health care needs by reflecting on any health changes, upcoming medical procedures and new medications. Furthermore, utilize available resources such as plan comparison tools,informational webinars and consultations with benefits advisors. Dedicate time to research and ask questions so you can ensure that you select the plan that best meets your and your family’s needs.
Client and Employee Resources
The more your employees understand your benefit plans the more they become educated, empowered consumers. The programs you provide will also gain an enhanced value.
As your strategic partners in employee benefits, we can provide multiple avenues of ongoing support, including:
- Employee Meetings (English and Spanish)
- Webcasts
- Payroll Stuffers
- Poster Campaigns
- Newsletters
Carrier Directories
E-Verify is a web-based system that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. Click the image below to begin.
