Compliance

After First Brands’ bankruptcy and pension plan termination, the federal agency stepped in to ensure retirees receive their full benefits.

The insurance company hopes a recent 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling will influence the decision about the plaintiffs’ class status.

The proposal would cut the agency funding by more than 5% as part of the administration’s plan to shrink the size of the federal government. 

Private market investments at least warrant a look, according to speakers at the 2026 PLANSPONSOR National Conference.

The appeals court’s ruling in a challenge to tobacco-use surcharges could affect more than 75 pending lawsuits related to workplace wellness programs. 

Wait times and claim backlogs took center stage as the Social Security commissioner touted the quality of service, but Democrats questioned the veracity of his claim.

The appellate court stuck with its March ruling that claims involving individualized monetary losses cannot be pursued as mandatory class action lawsuits.

The agreement ends a nearly 8-year legal dispute concerning plaintiffs receiving fewer benefits due to outdated actuarial tables.

Supporters say the proposal would reduce litigation fears and expand retirement investment options, while critics warn it will weaken longstanding investor protections.

Speakers said SECURE 2.0, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and new DOL rules should shape retirement plan committee priorities.

According to Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, the administration will turn to broader retirement access proposals after the July launch of the new investment program for children.

Panelists at the 2026 PLANSPONSOR National Conference said new Department of Labor rules could give employers more room to innovate, but documentation burdens will rise.

The contribution limit for health savings accounts will increase to $4,500 from $4,400 for 2027.

Speaking at the PLANSPONSOR National Conference, the Employee Benefits Security Administration head touted his focus on reducing ‘meritless cases.’

As postage costs rise and digital delivery expands under SECURE 2.0, plan sponsors are rethinking how to best reach participants.

Misinterpreting the distinction between the two could increase plan sponsors’ exposure to litigation or other risks.

Nearly 40,000 comments have been filed since EBSA made the proposal on March 31.

The department sided with employers in oral arguments before multiple circuit courts of appeal, urging judges to uphold lower-court decisions to dismiss the complaints.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the American Benefits Council file amicus brief claiming "improper certification of ERISA class actions...here harms American businesses and their employees."

Multiple lawsuits accuse CVS Health of siphoning about $250 million in reduced-price drug program savings from hospitals.