Now more than 50 years after its enactment in 1974, ERISA is still the center of the employee benefits universe. The introduction of COBRA, HIPAA, the ACA, and countless other key EB laws in more recent years can sometimes cause ERISA to get lost in the shuffle. Nonetheless, ERISA’s requirements are still the most important compliance foundation for your health and welfare plans.
This session of Newfront Office Hours will address the key ERISA issues for employers to keep in mind in the day-to-day maintenance of employee benefit plans. We will review the basics, dig into the more difficult ERISA issues that commonly arise, and focus on best practices in light of the recent prescription drug litigation addressing the core employer fiduciary duties.
Thursday, April 10, 2025 10:00am - 10:45am PT
Speaker
Brian Gilmore
Lead Benefits Counsel, VP
Topics for Discussion
Understanding the important role of wrap plan documents and wrap SPDs to satisfy ERISA's requirements.
A practical look into the core four ERISA fiduciary duties employers must continue to satisfy, particularly in light of recent prescription drug fee litigation.
An overview of the Form 5500 reporting requirements, the potential penalties for failure, how to avoid those penalties, and the SAR distribution to employees.
Why it's important to establish clearly defined eligibility classes that are consistently applied to avoid multiple issues.
The wonderful world of ERISA's express federal preemption provision, including the savings clause and the deemer clause.
Benefits where ERISA status can be difficult to determine, including STD, severance, and voluntary plans.
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