Oct 6, 2020 | Commentary, COVID-19 Updates
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, companies across the globe have been working to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. As the pandemic continues on and vaccine clinical trials progress, there may be a possibility of a COVID-19 vaccine being approved for use in the foreseeable future.
The prospect of a vaccine is exciting to most, but also presents challenges for employers. Employers may be considering whether vaccination will be encouraged or mandated.
Employers must navigate the inherent legal risks and logistics of mandating or encouraging employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. To do so, employers should seek legal counsel to discuss which course of action is best for their organization. This article provides a general informational overview of considerations for employers. (more…)
May 29, 2020 | COVID-19 Updates
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly decreased health care utilization, as health care providers and patients have canceled appointments and postponed elective procedures. Because employees are not using their insurance benefits, some group medical, dental and vision carriers are providing employers with a credit against future premiums owed under their insurance contracts. Read more…
May 15, 2020 | COVID-19 Updates
The coronavirus pandemic has had far-reaching effects on all aspects of business and society—including health savings accounts (HSAs). The federal government has enacted legislation designed to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, and these laws have created changes to HSAs. Read more…
May 13, 2020 | COVID-19 Updates
On May 12, 2020, the IRS released Notice 2020-29, which provides temporary flexibility for mid-year election changes under a Section 125 cafeteria plan during calendar year 2020. The changes are designed to allow employers to respond to changes in employee needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more…
Apr 30, 2020 | COVID-19 Updates
On April 28, 2020, the Departments of Labor and the Treasury (Departments) issued deadline relief to help employee benefit plans, plan participants and plan service providers impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Read more…
Apr 13, 2020 | COVID-19 Updates
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provides federal funding to expand the availability of unemployment insurance (UI) benefits during the coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency. Under this law, virtually all types of workers, even those who otherwise would not qualify for UI benefits, may receive payments for up to 39 weeks of unemployment under certain circumstances. Read more…
