Mental Health Parity Enacted as Part of Bailout Package
October 2008 - Hewitt Associates via American Benefits Council
Excerpt: The Mental Health Parity Act becomes effective in plan years beginning after December 31, 2009. This Hewitt Consulting bulletin discusses the requirements of the Mental Health Parity Act and its impact on employer group health plans.
IRS releases 2009 Cost of Living Adjustments for Transportation Benefits and Adoption Assistance
October 17, 2008 - Discovery Benefits
The IRS released the 2009 cost-of-living adjustments for transportation fringe benefits and adoption assistance programs.
Qualified Transportation Limits - For 2009, the monthly limit on the amount that may be excluded from an employee's income will be $230 for qualified parking benefits and $120 for transit passes and van pooling expenses combined.
New Michelle's Law Extends Coverage for Dependent College Students
October 14, 2008 - Ogletree Deakins
In another federal coverage mandate, employer health plans and group health insurers will be required to continue coverage for one year for any dependent college student who would otherwise lose coverage due to medically necessary leave of absence under an amendment to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) that was signed by President George W. Bush on October 9.
