5th Circuit Upholds DOL’s Authority to Set Minimum Salary Requirement for White-collar Exemptions - On Sept. 11, 2024, in Mayfield v. U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit held that the...

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All Draft Forms & Instructions for 2024 ACA Reporting Now Available - In July 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released draft 2024 forms for reporting under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and 6056....

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Insurance Challenges Facing Coastal Commercial Properties - Coastal environments refer to areas located on or within a few miles of shorelines. These environments are some of the most popular spaces for commercial real...

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5 Risks of Hiring an Uninsured Contractor - Project owners or general contractors must carefully vet contractors to ensure jobsite safety and financial security. A critical factor in this selection process is verifying...

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Deadline for Employers to Receive MLR Rebates Is Approaching - Employers with insured group health plans may soon receive a medical loss ratio (MLR) rebate from their health insurance issuers. Issuers who did not meet...

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EBSA Releases Updated Cybersecurity Guidance for Employee Benefit Plans - Through Compliance Assistance Release No. 2024-01, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) is confirming...

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IRS Implementation Guidance on Qualified Student Loan Payment Match Programs - On Aug. 19, 2024, the IRS issued Notice 2024-63, providing interim guidance for sponsors of 401(k) and similar retirement plans that provide...

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Motivating Employees to Spend More Time With Open Enrollment - Open enrollment is a critical period for both employees and employers. It’s the time when employees can make important decisions about their benefits, which...

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Preparing for the 2024 Election - Federal, state and local elections are scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 5, this year. Employers should be aware of the number of ways elections impact the workplace. For instance, some...

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Report Finds Weight Loss Drugs Key Driver of 2025 Health Care Cost Increase - A recent Business Group on Health (BGH) survey found that heightened interest and spending on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs is a...

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World Mental Health Day: Take Action - World Mental Health Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, is a global initiative to raise awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being....

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OSHA Proposes Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Standard - On Aug. 30, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a notice of proposed rulemaking in the...

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What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - In the United States, influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May, with peak flu activity between December and March. What’s more, flu season in the Southern...

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A Corporate Board’s Guide to Generative AI Benefits and Risks - As generative artificial intelligence (AI) advances, corporate boards are increasingly leveraging its capabilities to improve several aspects of their...

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OSHA Releases New Online Severe Injury Report Dashboard - On Sept. 4, 2024, OSHA released an online tool giving users the ability to search its severe injury report (SIR) database and view trends related to workplace...

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Final Rule Makes Extensive Changes to Mental Health Parity Requirements - On Sept. 9, 2024, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury (Departments) released a final rule to strengthen the...

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Employee Handbooks: Common Legal Mistakes - Your employee handbook is an important document. Not only does it help employees understand company policies, promote solid company-employee communication and set a consistent...

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Understanding Cybercriminals: Motivations, Methods and Protection Strategies - Cyberattacks can impact a company in numerous ways. They can create significant financial losses through fines, lawsuits and business...

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Understanding Employers’ Liability Insurance - Accidents can happen in any workplace, and they often result in employee injuries and illnesses. These events can pose serious consequences for both employers and their...

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Contingent Business Interruption Insurance for Cyber Events - In today’s evolving risk landscape, organizations of all sizes and sectors face a wide range of cyberthreats. Amid advancing attack techniques and growing...

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2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends - Throughout 2024, there have been significant changes in employment law at the federal, state and local levels. A review of recent and proposed legislation reveals a number...

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Employer Considerations for Navigating Election Section - Election season can be a fraught time for employers. Employers are often faced with the challenge of fostering a culture of open communication while ensuring a...

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CMS has provided two model notices for employers to use: Medicare Part D Notices Are Due Before Oct. 15, 2024 - Each year, Medicare Part D requires group health plan sponsors to disclose to individuals who are eligible...

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Steps for Businesses to Create Safer Drivers - Company drivers are exposed to several risks on the road. In fact, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, transportation incidents are the leading cause of work-...

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Tips for Retaining Employees in 2024 - Around 27% of U.S. workers quit their jobs in 2023, which, according to a common turnover calculation, cost employers nearly a trillion dollars to replace. Unfortunately, turnover...

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Drug Test Cheating Surged in 2023 - The rate of employees tampering with drug tests reached new highs in 2023, according to a report from health data analytics firm Quest Diagnostics. The percentage of tests that showed...

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Report: Health Care Costs 254% Higher for Privately Insured Patients Than Those With Medicare - A new RAND report revealed that in 2022, private insurers paid hospitals an average of 254% more than what Medicare would...

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Managing Work-Life Balance During Return To School - For working parents with school-age kids, the back-to-school season can be chaotic. There are new routines to figure out, an onslaught of activities to manage and...

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Prioritizing Wellness During The 2024-25 School Year - Many parents and kids may be excited for school to start after a long summer. However, the new school year may come with new or recurring challenges. Working...

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Court Denies FMLA for Unmarried Father Before Child's Birth - The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals recently held in Tanner v. Stryker Corp. that an unmarried employee who traveled to be with his pregnant ex-girlfriend for...

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The Role of a Public Relations Specialist in Cyber Incident Response - When cyber incidents strike, organizations need to respond swiftly and effectively to limit related losses. As such, it’s crucial for organizations...

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Regulators Cite Major Gaps in Consumer Understanding of Insurance - More than a third of Gen Z adults buy protection plans for their cellphones, but just 21% have renters insurance, according to a survey from the...

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The Role of Digital Forensics and Incident Response in Cybersecurity - As the cybersecurity landscape evolves and cybercriminals continue to develop new ways to infiltrate computer systems and networks, employers must...

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SIM-Swapping Attacks Explained - In recent years, a growing number of organizations have implemented stronger cybersecurity measures, including multifactor authentication (MFA). This method requires a user to present...

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DOL Updates Model Employer CHIP Notice - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), through its Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), has released a new model Employer CHIP Notice with information current as of ...

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USCIS Extends Form I-9 Expiration Date - On Aug. 2, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it updated its Employment Eligibility Verification form, also known as Form I-9, to extend...

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Cholesterol and You - Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood that your body needs to build cells; however, too much can pose a problem. Cholesterol travels through the blood on proteins called lipoproteins....

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Many Americans Remain Unfamiliar With 988 - The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline) was launched nationwide in July 2022. The three-digit dialing code replaced the original 1-800 number to make it easier to...

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Increased Civil Penalty Amounts for SBC, MSP, HIPAA Violations - On Aug. 8, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a final rule increasing key penalties affecting group health plans. HHS...

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The Value of Business Interruption Insurance - When organizations face large-scale disasters or other unexpected losses, ensuring business continuity is often a top priority. Yet, various losses may make it challenging...

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How Noncompete Agreements Impact Hiring - Noncompete agreements are often viewed as a double-edged sword in hiring and employee management. While they may help safeguard proprietary and confidential information, they...

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NLRB Voluntarily Withdraws Joint-employer Rule Appeal - On July 19, 2024, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) voluntarily dismissed its appeal of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas decision...

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Deadline for Employers to Receive MLR Rebates Is Approaching - Employers with insured group health plans may soon receive a medical loss ratio (MLR) rebate from their health insurance issuers. Issuers who did not meet...

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8 Tips for Effective 2025 Open Enrollment Communication - Now more than ever, employees are looking to their employers for guidance on navigating their available benefits and how to stretch their dollars further. Many...

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Renters Insurance for College Students - When your child leaves for college, it’s a period of profound change that can be a challenging adjustment. Many moving parts and checklists must be completed for this new life...

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Open Enrollment 2025- Health Savings Account (HSAs) - Employers who sponsor high deductible health plans (HDHPs) that are compatible with health savings accounts (HSAs) should prepare for open enrollment by: Ensuring...

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SAR Is Due by Sept. 30 for Calendar Year Plan - Many employers that must file Form 5500 on behalf of their employee benefit plans must also provide plan participants with a summary annual report (SAR). The SAR is a...

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2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends - Throughout 2024, there have been significant changes in employment law at the federal, state and local levels. A review of recent and proposed legislation reveals a number...

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Zoning Out: The Signs, Causes and When to Get Help - “Zoning out” is a mild and common form of dissociation. Nearly everyone does it from time to time. Zoning out can serve as a coping mechanism when you are bored,...

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The Health Benefits of Camping - Millions of Americans enjoy camping each year, especially as temperatures rise and days get longer in the summer. Moreover, interest among noncampers has been growing steadily for years....

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OSHA’s Safe and Sound Week Scheduled for Aug. 12-18 - Each year, more than 5,000 workers are killed on the job. Additionally, more than 3.6 million employees are seriously injured each year while at work. Because of...

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OSHA Proposes Heat Injury & Illness Prevention Standard - On July 2, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced an unofficial version of the proposed ...

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Federal Courts Block Enforcement of Certain Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Provisions - On April 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Civil Rights (OCR) issued a final rule under...

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The Role of a Data Breach Coach in Cyber Incident Response - Cybersecurity events can lead to businesses sustaining substantial financial and reputational damage. Recovering from these incidents can also be complicated...

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CVSA’s Brake Safety Week Scheduled for Aug. 25-31 - The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) recently scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for Aug. 25-31, 2024. This annual event aims to emphasize the importance...

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The Importance of Timely Notice Under Claims-made Liability Policies - Claims-made liability policies require timely notice of claims or circumstances that could lead to a claim for an insured to qualify for coverage....

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Workers Compensation Insurance - Profitable underwriting results have generated favorable conditions across the workers’ compensation insurance market for nearly a decade. According to the National Council on...

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Cyber Insurance - Heightened claim frequency and severity have created a volatile cyber insurance market in recent years, with most policyholders facing ongoing premium increases. Fortunately, the segment experienced...

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US Supreme Court Overrules Chevron Deference - On June 28, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo and Relentless Inc. v. Department of Commerce. The Court overruled its...

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Forecasters Up Their Hurricane Outlook After Hyperactive Beryl - Researchers at Colorado State University have upped their forecast for this year’s Atlantic hurricane season, now projecting at least 25 named storms,...

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Texas Federal District Court Partially Blocks the FTC's Noncompete Ban - On July 3, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas granted the plaintiffs’ motion in Ryan LLC v. FTC for a preliminary...

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Using HSAs, Health FSAs and HRAs for Over-the-Counter Items - Health savings accounts (HSAs), health flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) may provide tax-free reimbursements of...

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The DOL Overtime Rule’s Impact on Employee Benefit - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) final rule issued on April 23, 2024, increases the salary thresholds used to determine whether executive, administrative and...

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Large Jury Verdicts Rising Steadily, Especially for Product Liability - According to a recent report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), large jury verdicts over $10 million continue to...

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IRS FAQs on Educational Assistance Programs - The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued frequently asked questions (FAQs) that provide general information on educational assistance programs under Section 127 of the...

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Coverage of Gender-affirming Care: Employer Considerations - In Lange v. Houston County, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that it was a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) for an...

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The Value of Inland Marine Insurance - Contrary to its name, inland marine insurance does not relate to the ocean or waterways; rather, it can help reimburse losses stemming from an organization’s products, materials...

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Commercial Auto Insurance - Plummeting profitability has been an ongoing concern in the commercial auto insurance segment, prompting hardening conditions and continued rate hikes. While the majority of policyholders saw...

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Commercial Property Insurance - The commercial property insurance segment has been characterized by ongoing premium increases for much of the past decade. According to industry data, such rate jumps reached record-...

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Federal Youth Employment Law - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) oversees and enforces federal youth employment laws through the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under the FLSA, employers are prohibited from employing “...

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DOL Prioritizes Enforcement of Youth Employment Laws - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) oversees and enforces federal youth employment laws through the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA prohibits organizations...

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SURVIVING THE SUMMER HEAT - Summer brings longer days and plenty of sunshine, but with it comes the challenge of staying cool amidst soaring temperatures. The sweltering heat can lead to various heat-related illnesses,...

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Defending AI Systems From Malicious Data Poisoning Attacks - As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) continues to grow, businesses that utilize these technologies must also be aware of the...

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Workers’ Compensation System Shows Financial Strength and Lower Claim Frequency - The performance of the workers’ compensation system remains strong, according to a new State of the Line Report from the National Council...

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OSHA Publishes Its Updated Hazard Communication Standard - On May 20, 2024, OSHA published its final rule on its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to conform to the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of...

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- On May 31, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) updated its frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding HIPAA and the recent cybersecurity incident involving...

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DOL Issues Gag Clause Attestation Resources for 2024 - On May 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued various resources to assist health plans and health insurance issuers in annually submitting their...

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3rd Circuit Rules USERRA May Require Paid Leave - On May 21, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit held that short-term military leave may be comparable to jury duty leave and bereavement leave and...

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DOJ Releases Proposed Rule to Ease Federal Restrictions on Marijuana - On May 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a proposed rule that would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III...

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Property Pricing May Have Eased, but Brokers Still Having Trouble - Commercial property and casualty insurance premiums rose an average of 7.7% in the first quarter of 2024, up slightly from 7.0% in Q4 2023, according...

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NOAA Predicts “Above Normal” 2024 Hurricane Season - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts “above-normal” activity in the Atlantic basin this hurricane season, typically lasting June...

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Kia Recalls Over 450,000 Vehicles Due to Fire Risk - Kia America is recalling nearly 463,000 Telluride SUVs due to concerns that the front seats may catch on fire. The recall applies to model year 2020-2024 vehicles....

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Covered Property Under Commercial Property Insurance - Businesses often rely on buildings, structures, tools and equipment to provide products and services. Moreover, many businesses are responsible for storing others’...

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Covered Perils Under Basic and Broad Forms of Commercial Property Policies - A business’s property is essential to its operations, so property losses can create substantial disruptions. Securing commercial property...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: Preparing for the Corporate Transparency Act - The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which became effective Jan. 1, 2024, requires certain business entities, or CTA “reporting companies,” to...

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PCORI Fees Due July 31, 2024 - The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance issuers and self-insured plan sponsors to pay Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are reported...

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Combating Summertime Stressors - Many people experience better mental health and mood during the summer due to longer days and sunlight. Yet the season is stressful for others; summertime stressors and extreme weather...

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Beat the Summer Heat - Summer heat can be more than uncomfortable; it can threaten your health, especially for older adults and children. Hot and humid weather can make it more challenging for your body to cool down,...

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CVSA Reveals 2024 Focus for Upcoming Operation Safe Driver Week - Operation Safe Driver Week-an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)-will take place from July 7-13, 2024. This year’...

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EEOC Announces July 9 “Failure to File” Deadline for 2023 EEO-1 Reports - On June 5, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced that it had entered the “Failure to File” phase for EEO-1...

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June is National Safety Month - June is National Safety Month. This campaign, put together by the National Safety Council (NSC), highlights efforts to prevent injuries and deaths inside and outside the workplace. It...

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Overview of the EEOC's workplace Guidance to Prevent Harassment - On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published its final guidance on harassment in the workplace, which went into...

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DOL Issues Guidance on AI-related Wage and Hour Risks - On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) published Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) No. 2024-1 on the use of artificial...

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The Power of Self-care - Self-care is the practice of intentionally engaging in activities that positively impact mental, physical and emotional well-being. It directly correlates to mental health, as self-care...

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Explore the Great Outdoors - Spending even a few moments outside daily can significantly improve your physical health by reducing muscle tension, regulating sleep and improving your work performance. Experiencing the...

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Cybersecurity Awareness Programs: Benefits and Implementation - Businesses of all sizes are susceptible to cyberattacks such as phishing scams, malware attacks and ransomware schemes, which can create significant...

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Casualty Claims Severity Significantly Outpacing Economic Inflation - Claims costs for commercial auto, professional liability, product liability and directors and officers liability insurance have exceeded economic...

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OSHA Releases Its Injury Tracking Application 2023 Injury and Illness Data - On April 18, 2024, OSHA released the 2023 injury and illness data collected under the Improved Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illness...

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New HIPAA Rule Will Require Updates to Privacy Notices - On April 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a final rule that strengthens the HIPAA Privacy Rule by prohibiting the...

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- - HHS’ FAQs on Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Final Rule - Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in certain health...

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Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the DOL’s Final Overtime Rule - On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule to amend current requirements employees in white-collar...

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DOL Issues Guidance on AI and FMLA Administration - The Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the U.S. Department of Labor recently published a Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) warning that the use of artificial intelligence (...

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DOL Announces Final Overtime Rule Increasing Salary Levels for White-collar Employees - On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule to amend current requirements employees in white-...

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HHS Finalizes Rule to Strengthen Reproductive Health Care Privacy - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final rule that strengthens the HIPAA Privacy Rule by prohibiting the disclosure of...

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HSA/HDHP Limits Will Increase for 2025 - On May 9, 2024, the IRS released Revenue Procedure 2024-25 to provide the inflation-adjusted limits for health savings accounts (HSAs) and high deductible health plans (HDHPs)...

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Scheduled Versus Blanket Limits for Commercial Property Insurance - Commercial property insurance is an essential form of coverage for any organization. Such a policy can provide much-needed financial protection if an...

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Preparing for the FTC’s Noncompete Ban - On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted to issue a final rule that would prohibit employers from entering into or enforcing noncompete clauses with most...

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Key Provisions From the DOL’s Final Overtime Rule for White-collar Employees - The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to compensate their employees for all hours employees are “suffered or permitted” to...

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Group Health Plan Fiduciary Litigation on the Rise - Enforcement of the strict standards of fiduciary conduct set forth in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) has traditionally been reserved for...

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FTC Announces Rule Banning Noncompetes - On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted to issue a final rule that would ban noncompete agreements in virtually all employment relationships. The final rule...

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DOL Rescinds 2018 Final Rule on Association Health Plans - On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a final rule that rescinds in its entirety a prior 2018 final rule on association health plans (...

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DOL Issues Final Retirement Security Rule and Related Amendments to PTE - On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued a final retirement security rule updating the definition of an investment advice...

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Optional Commercial Property Coverage Offerings Under the BPP - Commercial property insurance provides much-needed financial protection if an organization’s property is directly damaged or destroyed by a covered peril (...

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Mental Health Parity Compliance Remains a Key Focus in 2024 - The federal government is continuing its efforts to improve access to mental health and substance use disorder (MH/SUD) care in 2024, with a top enforcement...

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Study Shows 40% of Insured Workers Delay Health Care Due to Cost - A study by employee health payment platform Paytient revealed the challenges Americans face with employer-sponsored insurance. Notably, 40% of workers...

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U.S. Supreme Court Rules That Mandatory Job Transfer Can Be Discriminatory Under Title VII - On April 17, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision in Muldrow v. City of St. Louis, holding that a...

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How Return-to-Work Programs Impact Workers’ Compensation Expenses - Workers’ compensation expenses are determined by a wide range of factors; however, one of the most significant cost components in any workers’...

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Health Care Costs and Your Employee Health Plan - Health care costs, and consequently employee health benefits costs, have been increasing at an alarming rate for nearly a decade. Avoiding rising health care costs is...

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Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma - May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national health observance dedicated to shedding light on mental health conditions and fostering understanding and support for those...

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Mental Health in America and How to Get Help - More than half of adults in the United States will experience mental illness-which refers to a variety of conditions that affect one’s mood, behavior, feelings or thinking-...

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EEOC Releases Final Rule Implementing Pregnant Workers Fairness Act - On April 15, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released a final rule to implement the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)...

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OSHA Announces Final Rule on Worker Walkaround Representative Designation - OSHA recently announced its final rule that clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a representative to accompany an OSHA compliance...

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Cloud Security Management Explained - Cloud computing refers to a pay-per-use service that equips users with on-demand access to a range of IT resources (e.g., databases, software, servers, networking and analytics...

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What Are Specialty Drug Benefits? - Specialty drugs, also known as specialty pharmaceuticals, are some of the most expensive prescriptions you can buy-costing up to $2,000 or more per month. Unfortunately, they may also...

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OSHA’s Worker Walkaround Designation Process Frequently Asked Questions - On March 29, 2024, OSHA announced its final rule that clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a nonemployee, third-party representative to...

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Preparing for the DOL’s New Overtime Rule - In early March 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) proposed overtime rule, announced in August 2023, entered its last stage of review. Publication of the final rule is...

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Form 5500 Deadline is July 31st - Each year, employers that are subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) must electronically file an annual report (Form 5500) for each employee benefit plan...

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ACA Information Reporting Penalties Increased for Returns Filed in 2025 - IRS Revenue Procedure 2023-34 includes updated penalty amounts that may apply to reporting entities that fail to comply with the Affordable Care...

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- Differences Between Traditional and Cyber Business Interruption Policies - When organizations face large-scale disasters or other unexpected losses, ensuring business continuity is often a top priority. Yet, various...

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Understanding Common CGL Policy Exclusion - Commercial general liability (CGL) insurance is an essential form of coverage for any organization. Such a policy can provide much-needed financial protection if an...

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Why It Can Pay to Have Uninsured Motorist Insurance - Car insurance is a vital safeguard for drivers that is often legally required by states. Specifically, auto liability insurance (a standard component of a car...

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Vehicle Thefts Hit a New Record in 2023: NICB - Vehicle thefts have steadily increased since 2019, rising about 1% in 2023 to 1,020,729 and setting a new record for stolen vehicles, according to new data from the...

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- Report Highlights Growing Demand for Family-friendly Benefits - A new report released by family health benefits platform Ovia Health by Labcorp (Ovia) uncovered U.S. workers’ preferences for family-friendly workplace...

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- 4 Ways AI Will Impact the Workplace in 2024 - Artificial intelligence (AI) garnered attention from every industry in 2023, revolutionizing the way organizations operate and make decisions. Many employers adopted this...

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- Health Care Industry Trends to Watch in 2024 - In recent years, the health care industry has been navigating a landscape fraught with volatility. Shifting market demands, supply chain struggles and medical inflation...

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- New TX Law Prohibits COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates - As of Feb. 6, 2024, a new Texas law prohibits all private employers in the state from adopting or enforcing any COVID-19 vaccination mandates for workers. Covered...

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Navigating the Auto Insurance Market in 2024 - Like most people, you may have seen your car insurance premiums increase this year even if you haven’t had any auto accidents in the past 12 months. The personal car...

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- Tips for Home Buyers in 2024 - For millions of Americans, home insurance remains an essential financial safeguard. These policies can provide critical financial security as homeowners seek to protect their fiscal...

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- DOL Releases Benefit-related Penalty Amounts for 202 - On Jan. 11, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) published the 2024 inflation-adjusted civil monetary penalties that may be assessed for a wide range of...

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- 2023 Employment Law Changes Important in 2024 - The year 2023 brought about significant shifts in the employment law landscape, impacting how organizations navigate the complex web of regulations governing workplaces....

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- Benefits of Return-to-Work Programs for Employers and Employees - According to the National Safety Council, a worker gets hurt on the job every seven seconds. And when an employee experiences an occupational illness...

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- Compliance Overview: Top Health Plan Compliance Issues for 2024 - Employers should be aware of the top compliance issues that impact their health plan coverage for 2024. Some of these compliance issues are established...

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- Data Breach Class Actions Skyrocketed in 2023 - Data breach class action lawsuits “exploded” in 2023, according to Duane Morris LLP’s Class Action Review 2024, becoming one of the fastest growing areas of litigation...

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- 5 Employment Policies to Review in 2024 - Employee handbooks are important tools for establishing employee expectations, addressing workplace issues and defending against potential lawsuits. Failing to update the...

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The Business Implications of the DOL’s New Independent Contractor Rule - On Jan. 9, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a final rule, effective March 11, 2024, revising the agency’s guidance on how to...

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- Top 2024 Wellness Trends - As the workplace landscape continues to evolve, so does the understanding of employee wellness. In 2024, organizations are embracing innovative strategies to prioritize their workforce's...

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- OSHA Proposes to Issue a New Emergency Response Standard - On Feb. 5, 2024, OSHA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to issue a new safety and health standard, titled Emergency Response, to replace the...

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NCCI Experience Modification Factor 2024 Changes FAQs - The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) is making alterations to its experience modification factor for 2024. These changes are slated to go into...

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- 7 Key Employee Benefits Trends in 2024 - Attracting and retaining employees has challenged employers since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, the labor market is expected to cool slightly; however,...

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- Mental Health Minute - January 2024 - Mental Health Benefits of a Clean, Organized Space - If you’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, keeping your home...

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- Early-career and Entry-level Development Programs to Attract Talent - In the competitive landscape of today's job market, attracting and retaining top-tier talent is a priority for organizations looking to secure...

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- OSHA Form 300A Posting Requirements Begin Feb. 1 - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers subject to its recordkeeping requirements to post copies of their OSHA Form 300A between ...

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- House Passes Bipartisan Act to Lower Health Care Costs and Increase Price Transparency - On Dec. 11, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of health care and...

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- Workplace Fatalities Up 5.7% According to Bureau of Labor Statistics - The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recently released its 2022 national census of fatal occupational injuries. The census, which represents...

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- Benefits and Risks of Rooftop Solar Panels for Commercial Properties - As solar rooftops become an increasingly common addition to commercial properties, businesses need to be aware of the pros and cons of this...

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OSHA’s Safety and Health Bulletin on Safety Helmets in the Workplace - On Nov. 22, 2023, OSHA provided a Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) on the use of safety helmets in the workplace. The SHIB provides the...

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- 8 Tips for Modernizing Hiring in 2024 - As talent acquisition continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for organizations aiming to attract and retain top-tier talent. Last year highlighted labor...

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- Live Well, Work Well - January 2024 - How to Make-and Keep-Your New Year’s Resolution - As a new year begins, you may be reflecting on the past year. This introspection is a significant first step toward selecting a...

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- Benefits Breakdown - January 2024 - 4 Key Trends Driving Employer Health Care Costs in 2024 - Amid ongoing inflation pressures, employees and employers alike can expect their health care costs to increase in 2024....

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- U.S. Coastal Communities Could Become Uninsurable - It’s been all storm no calm for property insurance buyers in coastal regions in recent years, and many catastrophe-prone communities run the risk of becoming...

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Responding to the EEOC’s Increased Focus on Mental Health Discrimination - As society’s understanding of mental health continues to grow, so has government acknowledgment and efforts to protect workers with such...

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- Protecting Your Business Against Frozen Pipes and Sprinkler Systems - During the winter season, businesses face a unique set of property challenges, including the risk of frozen pipes and sprinkler systems. These...

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Home Care for the Common Cold and Flu - Many people visit the doctor even when they don’t need a doctor’s expertise to diagnose and treat their symptoms. The next time you or someone in your family has a cold or...

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Mental Health Minute - December 2023 - Healthy Habits That Can Lower Your Risk of Depression - A recent international study published in the Nature Mental Health journal found that certain lifestyle factors can reduce...

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- - Live Well, Work Well - December 2023 - Managing Financial Stress During the Holidays - If the holiday shopping season stresses you out, you’re not alone. Research by financial services company Bank rate revealed...

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NCCI Experience Modification Factor 2024 Changes FAQs - The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) is making alterations to its experience modification factor for 2024. These changes are slated to go into...

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Understanding, Preventing and Mitigating Workplace Violence - Workplace violence threatens the health and safety of employees, clients and visitors. It affects all industries, regardless of size or location, and its...

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- Understanding Protective Safeguards Endorsements (PSEs) - When it comes to property insurance, it’s not just about securing a policy; it’s about fully understanding its nuances to ensure you have the highest level of...

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EEOC Opens EEO-1 Reporting Portal for 2022 Workforce Data - The portal for private sector employers to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2022 to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity...

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MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Digital Defenses - The odds are stacked in favor of increasingly bold and sophisticated cybercriminals, as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment learned back in...

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Q2 P&C Industry Combined Ratio, Net Income at Worst Levels Since 2011 - Mounting underwriting losses pushed second-quarter property/casualty insurance industry net income and profitability to the worst levels since...

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November Is American Diabetes Month - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 37 million American adults have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. Diabetes is a chronic disease...

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Mental Health Minute - November 2023 - Daylight Saving Time’s Impact on the Brain - Most of the United States alternates between standard and daylight saving time (DST) every year so people can enjoy the daylight more....

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Preparing for the Fall and Winter Virus Season - Fall and winter are when viruses that cause respiratory disease usually circulate more heavily. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial...

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Understanding Auto Liability Coverage - Auto insurance is one of the most frequently purchased types of coverage in the United States. However, while these policies may be common, they can still be complex and nuanced....

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How to Read an Experience Modification Worksheet - An experience modification worksheet, often referred to as an experience rating worksheet or experience mod worksheet, is important in workers’ compensation insurance....

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- - Leveraging AI in Employment Decisions - Organizations are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in employment-related decisions. According to the Society for Human Resources Management, around 25% of...

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Interstate vs. Intrastate Experience Modification Rating - An experience modification rating (EMR) is a numerical indicator crucial in workers’ compensation insurance. It quantifies an employer’s workplace safety and...

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- - Preventing Property Losses With Infrared Thermography - For commercial property owners and managers, protecting facilities and minimizing potential losses is of utmost importance. One invaluable resource is infrared...

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- - Safe Driving Tips - Safe driving is a crucial responsibility that impacts not only your well-being but also the safety of everyone on the road. It involves recognizing and mitigating common driving hazards, such as...

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- - Sleep Matters for Mental Health - When you don’t get enough sleep, not only does it affect your physical health, but it also takes a toll on your mental health. In fact, mental health and sleep are so closely...

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- - EEOC Significantly Increased Discrimination Lawsuits in FY 2023 - Preliminary data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) showed that the agency filed 50% more employment discrimination...

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- - Best Practices for Board Orientation - The board of directors plays a vital role in maintaining the organizational structure of a company. This elected group oversees the organization’s activities and meets...

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U.S. Sets Record for Billion-dollar Weather and Climate Disasters in 2023 - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced that the United States has already seen a record number of...

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MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Defenses - The odds are stacked in favor of increasingly bold and sophisticated cybercriminals, as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment learned this week,...

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- - What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - Influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May in the United States, with peak flu activity between December and March. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,...

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- - How Can Grounding Techniques Help Manage Feelings? - Grounding is a practice that can help you manage experiences such as flashbacks, unwanted memories or negative emotions. These techniques involve focusing on the...

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- - Factors That Affect Your Home Insurance Premium - Home insurance coverage can differ from policy to policy depending on a multitude of factors. Being aware of these factors that affect your premium can ensure that...

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- - Open Enrollment 2024 – Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) - Employers who sponsor high deductible health plans (HDHPs) that are compatible with health savings accounts (HSAs) should prepare for open enrollment by:...

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- - SEC Adopts Final Rules for Public Companies’ Cybersecurity Disclosures - On July 26, 2023, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) published final rules to enhance and standardize how companies disclose...

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- - Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value - Your homeowners insurance policy can offer financial protection in the event of an unexpected disaster involving your home or personal property. But how you will be...

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- - Educating Young Employees on Open Enrollment - Many employees need help with open enrollment. This is particularly true among younger workers, who typically have less experience selecting benefits than older...

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- - Safety Matters: Construction + Extreme Heat - Preventing Falls Due to Extreme Heat - Extreme heat creates many risks in construction. As an employee in this industry, not only should you be aware of illnesses caused...

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Professional Liability Insurance Trends in the Legal Sector - Often referred to as legal malpractice coverage by lawyers, professional liability insurance can provide protection for losses caused by a client alleging...

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- - Mental Health Minute - September 2023 - The Connection Between Gut and Brain Health - Recent research indicates that the communication between your brain and your gut plays a crucial role in your overall health....

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- - Live Well, Work Well: The Link Between Health and Happiness - In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, happiness is a goal for many. However, happiness is not an isolated concept; it’s complex and connected to your...

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- New Law Requires Poster on How to Report Workplace Violence - On June 14, 2023, Texas enacted a new law, House Bill (HB) 915, that requires employers to post a notice about how employees may report workplace violence...

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- Average Data Breach Cost Hits All-time High of $4.4M - According to IBM’s annual Data Breach report, the average cost of a data breach reached an all-time global high of $4.45 million, up 2.3% from 2022 and 15.3%...

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- The Value of Cyber Insurance - As cyberattacks become more frequent and costly, it’s crucial for organizations to maximize their financial protection against related losses by purchasing sufficient insurance. Cyber...

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- Estimated $5.5B in Insured Losses - An outbreak of severe convective storm activity from June 10-19, 2023, is expected to cost approximately $5.5 billion in insured losses across 25 states, according to catastrophe...

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- Improving Your Self-discipline - Self-discipline is an important skill that can enable you to reach personal and professional goals. Developing self-discipline is like strengthening muscles; it can be improved with...

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The last several years have seen the commercial property insurance market progressively harden, evidenced by ongoing rate increases over the past 22 consecutive quarters. Such rate hikes showed some signs of stagnation...

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- Legal Update: New Form I-9 Available Aug. 1, 2023, With a Remote Verification Option for E-Verify Users - On July 21, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new version of Form I‑9,...

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UV Awareness Month - July is Ultraviolet (UV) Awareness Month. This campaign serves as a reminder of the dangers of UV exposure and the importance of sun safety. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to UV...

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Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors - As we move into summer, many will want to exercise outdoors to stay active and get some fresh air. That’s great news, as health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate...

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When employees leave a company, there is a heightened risk of data theft, which is also known as data leakage or exfiltration. This risk is present whether an employee’s departure is voluntary or not. The consequences...

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national campaign designed to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Mental health issues and mental illness are common....

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Your mental health includes how you think, feel and act, as well as your emotional and social well-being. Mental health can change over time, depending on factors like workload, stress and work-life balance. Mental...

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When a data breach or other cyber event occurs, the damages can be significant, often resulting in lawsuits, and serious financial losses. What’s more, cyber exposures impact businesses of all kinds, regardless of their...

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National Mental Health Awareness Month - May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This national campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, reduce stigma and promote safe and healthy living...

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Most of us have been personally involved in a minor auto accident. In an attempt to protect ourselves, we might become defensive, or be tempted not to reveal all the facts. Our car insurance agents advise us not to...

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The trucking industry consists of businesses that leverage large commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to transport various types of cargo (e.g., raw materials, product components and finished goods) over specified routes....

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The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Managing Seasonal Allergies - According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), allergies are the nation’s sixth-leading cause of chronic illness. Seasonal allergies are an annual nuisance for many...

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Mobile malware-malicious software designed to gain access to private data on mobile devices-is a growing threat to companies’ cybersecurity. As companies embrace remote work and more employees use their personal devices...

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The construction industry consists of companies that construct, maintain and repair buildings and other structures (e.g., roads, bridges and utility systems). This sector plays a vital role in the U.S. economy by...

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Your livelihood is dependent on the survival of your business, so it is imperative that you protect it against any potential threat-big or small. For instance, a fire could destroy your business’s warehouse and the...

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The National Safety Council (NSC) found that 1 in 12 workers is dealing with an untreated “substance use disorder” (SUD). Even if employers don’t see it, which is more likely with remote and hybrid work arrangements,...

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Increasing Your Nutrient Absorption With Food Pairings - March is recognized as National Nutrition Month, making it a great time to evaluate the food and beverages you’re putting into your body. Did you know that some...

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Can an employer discipline or terminate an employee who has an open workers’ compensation claim? This is a common question that many employers ask. The answer depends on which state the company is located in, why the...

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Workers exposed to extremely cold conditions are at risk of serious health problems, including hypothermia, frostbite, dehydration and muscle injuries. Frigid temperatures can also cause additional pain for those who...

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Since organizations rely heavily on email to communicate and conduct business operations, cybercriminals commonly target email as an entry point to access networks and breach valuable business data. In fact, 94% of...

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The winter months bring more than just cold weather and shorter days; they bring the possibility for winter storms that may result in a snow- and ice-covered landscape. While it may be a winter wonderland for some, as a...

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The Art of Waking Up Refreshed - Some people wake up ready to take on the day, while others may need more time or a cup of coffee to start their day. Regardless of which camp you’re in, there’s an art and a science to...

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Cyber incidents-including data breaches, ransomware attacks and social engineering scams-have become increasingly prevalent, impacting organizations of all sizes and industries. Such incidents have largely been brought...

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The past year has seen labor shortages across industry lines. According to a recent study from the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly 90% of businesses are having a hard time filling open positions. These...

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Organizations thrive through a sense of belonging and shared purpose. As employers navigate on-site, hybrid and remote work models, many may worry that those critical success factors could get lost in the workplace....

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Winter Driving - Skids - One of the most dangerous winter driving hazards is skidding. If it happens at a high speed, the result can be deadly. But most skids can be avoided by simply adjusting to driving conditions and...

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Don’t Forget; It’s National Blood Donor Month - Winter is one of the most challenging times of the year to collect enough blood products and donations to meet patient needs. That’s why National Blood Donor Month is...

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Major snow events can impact the integrity of a structure, making it imperative for commercial property owners to understand their building’s characteristics and structural system prior to the start of the snow season....

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Today’s society has become increasingly digital in nature, prompting businesses to leverage additional technology and online services in their operations. Specifically, some businesses have grown more reliant on the...

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According to Microsoft research, nearly half of employees have reported that they are burnt out at work. The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome resulting from workplace stress that has not been...

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Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction in the U.S. auto market. Last year, Americans bought nearly 450,000 EVs-an 83% jump over 2020. With many federal and state governments pushing for lower CO2 roadway...

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- Prioritizing Your Emotional Well-Being During the Holidays - While the holiday season and end-of-year parties can be full of festive fun, they can also be stressful and take a toll on your emotional well-being....

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Employees are an organization’s first line of defense against cybercriminals. For this reason, they are also commonly targeted. In fact, the vast majority (88%) of data breaches are caused by employee mistakes,...

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Duties in the Event of a Commercial Property Loss - Most people understand that insurance companies have a duty to reimburse insureds for commercial property damage not excluded by their policies. What’s lesser known is...

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Training for Temporary Workers and Their Worksite Supervisors - Any host employer (HE) that utilizes temporary workers (TWs) through a staffing company (SC) may be opening themselves up to safety and health challenges....

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How to Recession-proof Your life - Many Americans and economists think rising inflation issues, interest rates and housing costs may be warning signs of a looming recession. According to a Bankrate poll, nearly 7 in 10...

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Builder's Risk Insurance- Understanding What's Covered - Builders risk insurance is a specialized form of property coverage that can help protect buildings and other structures under construction. Also known as course...

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Modern vehicle technology has transformed in the past several years as autonomous driving, vehicle electrification and car connectivity features have become more common. While these digital innovations in the automotive...

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Endpoint detection and response (EDR) is a cybersecurity solution that continuously monitors security-related threat information and endpoint data to detect and respond to ransomware and other kinds of malware. It...

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What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - Influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May in the United States, with peak flu activity happening between December and March. The country’s flu activity has been...

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As cyber attacks become more and more common, protecting your data is increasingly difficult. In fact, a study from Juniper Research found that by 2023, cyber criminals are expected to steal an estimated 33 billion...

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Five Strategies for Reducing Workers’ Compensation Costs - When a company experiences significant increases in workers’ compensation costs, it usually triggers internal activities aimed at reducing insurance costs and...

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General Liability Exposures Every Organization Should Know - Almost every organization faces commercial liability exposures. A commercial liability loss exposure is a condition or situation that presents the possibility...

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Understanding How Habits Work to Influence Safety - As an employer, safety is your responsibility, and it’s important to identify workplace hazards and instill safe employee habits to ensure corrections remain permanent....

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The Art of Mindful Eating - Taking time to be mindful of your eating process and not focusing on restricting calories could enhance your awareness of the experience, improve your relationship with food and help you lose...

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Air Quality at Your Property - The health of your property’s occupants can be jeopardized by poor air quality, and it is your responsibility to provide a healthy indoor environment, whether it is protecting against...

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Protecting Property Against Hail - Hailstorms can be swift and destructive, damaging buildings, outdoor equipment and vehicles in a matter of minutes. For commercial property owners, such damage can result in destroyed...

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Cyber Hygiene Best Practices - As cyberattacks become more frequent and severe it is increasingly important for organizations to practice good cyber hygiene to minimize their exposure to risk. Cyber hygiene refers to...

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988: America’s First Three-digit Mental Health Crisis Line - The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Lifeline) launched nationwide on July 16. Similar to dialing 911 for medical emergencies, people in emotional distress or...

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Cyber Security for Small Businesses - High-profile cyber attacks on companies such as Target and Sears have raised awareness of the growing threat of cyber crime. Recent surveys conducted by the Small Business Authority,...

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Fuel Efficiency Best Practices for Fleets - Improving the fuel efficiency of a company’s fleet of vehicles can have many financial and environmental benefits, especially with fuel prices on the rise. Fuel can be one of...

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Avoiding Slips and Falls - A janitorial employee was scrubbing the steps and floors with water and a cleaning agent. An observant worker realized that soon, dozens of employees would be going down these steps for their...

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The Benefits of Seasonal Produce - In today’s supermarket, it’s normal to see the same produce available year-round. However, that doesn’t mean the quality always remains the same. Eating seasonally means you are simply...

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Hacktivism Explained - Hackers exploit virtual vulnerabilities to gain access to networks and devices illegally. While most engage in this activity for financial gain, others, called hacktivists, have different...

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Impact of Employee Mental Health and Well-being on Workplaces - Employee well-being refers to the overall state of employees’ physical, mental, social and financial health, which can often be influenced by various...

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Managing Road Rage - Road rage-aggressive or angry behavior exhibited by motorists-is prevalent on U.S. roadways. In fact, nearly 80% of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression or road rage behind the wheel at...

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Do Your Part to Keep Our Workplace Safe - Preventing injury and illness on the job is something all employees should take seriously-nothing less than your future is at stake. An on-the-job accident, infection or serious...

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Jackware Cyberattacks Explained - Ransomware incidents entail cybercriminals compromising their victims’ computers or servers with malware and demanding large payments in order to restore the technology (as well as any...

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Safety Matters: Avoid Heat Illness - When it is hot outside, your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels. Normally, your body cools itself through sweating. However, in hot and humid weather, sweating is not...

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EWG Releases 2022 Dirty Dozen List - Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a report ranking pesticide residue levels of fruits and vegetables based on samples taken by the U.S. Department of...

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Identifying and Avoiding Phone Scams - Every year, people report fraud, identity theft and bad business practices to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and law enforcement partners. According to FTC data, more than 2.8...

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Elevating Your Psychological Resiliency - Psychological resilience refers to the ability to mentally withstand or adapt to uncertainty and adversity. Building resilience to life’s inevitable changes and challenges can...

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Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud - More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies every year. In particular, springtime allergies are an annual nuisance for many people. As plants begin to bloom and neighbors...

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Spring can bring about some of the year’s most dangerous weather and wreak havoc on many aspects of a company’s operations. This article discusses the weather threats to watch out for during spring and measures...

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A spending bill signed into law on March 15, 2022, extends the ability of high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) to provide benefits for telehealth or other remote care services before plan deductibles have been met...

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The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Home insurance coverage can differ from policy to policy depending on a multitude of factors. Being aware of these factors that affect your premium can ensure that you are appropriately covered. Review this Know Your...

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- Understanding Your Kidney Health - March is National Kidney Month, making it a great time to take charge of your health to lower your chances of developing kidney disease. Your kidneys filter your blood to remove...

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- - Data Breaches Rose 68% in 2021, Hitting a New High With No Signs of Slowing - According to the Identity Theft Resource Center’s (ITRC) annual report-which advocated for more effective laws and regulations to better...

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Reducing Your Stress During American Heart Month - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, half of all Americans are...

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Keeping outdoor walking surfaces-such as parking lots and sidewalks-clear of ice in the winter is a crucial practice at many workplaces. Not only does ice removal offer aesthetic benefits, it can also help keep you,...

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On Jan. 25, 2022, OSHA provided notice that it is withdrawing its COVID-19 vaccination and weekly testing emergency temporary standard (ETS). The withdrawal will be effective once the notice is published in the Federal...

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Losing control of a car is undoubtedly one of the most frightening experiences behind the wheel. Unfortunately, it is a potential side effect when the temperatures turn frigid and the roads get slick with ice or snow....

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- - Winter Weather Liabilities - The winter months bring more than just cold weather and shorter days; they bring the possibility for winter storms that may result in a snow- and ice-covered landscape. While it may be a...

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- Health care costs continue to rise each year, and 2022 will likely be no exception. In the new year, experts predict a 6.5% increase in medical expenses alone, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers. In terms of health...

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On Jan. 13, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruled to stay the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) vaccination and testing emergency temporary standard (ETS). The ETS was...

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On Jan. 10, 2022, the Depts. of Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Treasury issued FAQ guidance regarding the requirements for group health plans and health insurance issuers to cover over-the-counter (OTC)...

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How to Make - and Keep - Your New Year's Resolution - As the new year approaches, you may find yourself reflecting on the past year. This introspection is a significant first step toward selecting a New Year’s...

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On Dec. 14, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued 14 new answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about what employers may or may not do to comply with federal fair employment laws during...

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On Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, the 6th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals reinstated the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) federal emergency temporary standard (ETS) for COVID-19. The 6th Circuit decision...

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Winter weather can create various driving challenges. Cold temperatures make it difficult for engines to work properly, while snow limits tire traction and salt causes rust on exterior paint. That’s why it is important...

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Winter months present additional hazards that are typically not factors for employees during warmer weather – specifically, slip and fall concerns. With snow and ice-covered conditions, you run the risk of taking major...

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As we age and reach different milestones in our lives, our insurance needs change. The following life events may affect your insurance needs: New home ownership- Purchasing a new home is a big investment-one that you...

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Employee Benefit Plan Limits for 2022 - Many employee benefits are subject to annual dollar limits that are periodically updated for inflation by the IRS. The following commonly offered employee benefits are subject to...

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On Nov. 4, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a federal emergency temporary standard (ETS) to address the grave danger of COVID-19 infection in the workplace. Affected employers...

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Vehicle-related crashes are the leading cause of work-related deaths. In addition to the potential for loss of life, work-related automobile accidents expose businesses to liability risks, legal expenses, lost time,...

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On July 29, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced that it is rescinding its 2020 Joint Employer Determination Rule (the Rule), effective Sept. 28, 2021. On Sept. 20, the DOL extended this date to Oct. 5,...

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The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) recently scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for Aug. 22-28. This annual event aims to emphasize the importance of ensuring sufficient brake systems in commercial motor...

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Each year, more than 5,000 workers are killed on the job. Additionally, more than 3.6 million employees are seriously injured each year while at work. Because of this, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (...

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Critical infrastructure cyberattacks are increasing in frequency according to Advisen’s loss database, and some experts are worried the worst is yet to come. There are sixteen industry sectors in the United States that...

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Understanding the 80% Rule for Home Insurance - When it comes to your home, making sure you’re adequately insured is of the utmost importance. Despite this, many homeowners are unaware of the “80% rule” for home...

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Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers have a lot to consider when it comes to operating their vehicles safely. This is especially true during various seasons throughout the year-such as road construction season, which...

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Penetration Testing Explained - Keeping workplace technology up and running is vital to any organization’s success. While this task seems feasible, it’s growing harder and harder each year as cybercriminals expand their...

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Employers now have some extra time to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on June 28, 2021. These reports were...

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To help drivers keep their vehicles safe, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has marked July as National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Specifically, the...

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White House Issues Ransomware Prevention Guidance to Businesses - In a recent letter addressed to corporate executives and business leaders, the White House emphasized that bolstering the nation’s resilience against...

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Fireworks are a staple of many Fourth of July and other celebrations, but remember to take precautions to ensure your special event is safe and accident-free. The Risks - Unfortunately, many people do not realize just...

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On June 10, 2021, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) announced its COVID-19 Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS). The ETS was developed to protect health care and health care support...

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A recent report by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that fatal traffic accidents increased 7.2% in 2020 from 2019, despite fewer drivers on the road....

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The Importance of a Standalone Cyber Insurance Policy - Over the course of the past decade, many organizations have relied on standard property and liability coverage rather than a standalone cyber insurance policy to...

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When it is hot outside, your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels. Normally, your body cools itself through sweating. However, in hot and humid weather, sweating is not enough and the result can be a heat...

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High-profile cyber attacks on companies such as Target and Sears have raised awareness of the growing threat of cyber crime. Recent surveys conducted by the Small Business Authority, Symantec, Kaspersky Lab and the...

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On May 28, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) added new answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) to its existing guidance on how employers should comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act...

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Outdoor Exercise Safety Tips - As we move into summer, many will want to exercise outdoors to stay active and get some fresh air. That’s great news, as experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity...

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Home Grilling Safety Tips -

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President Joe Biden recently signed into law a $1.9 trillion relief bill, known as the American Rescue Plan. The chart below provides an overview of the highlights of the bill and how it compares to the two previous...

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Congress has passed the PPP Extension Act of 2021, a 60-day extension of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Payment Protection Program (PPP), which was set to expire on March 31. President Joe Biden signed...

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The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), enacted March 11, 2021, includes changes to emergency paid sick leave and paid family leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The ARPA extended the tax...

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The commercial property market has steadily hardened in recent years, resulting in rate increases every quarter since Q3 2017. Unfortunately, these rate increases-as well as additional policy restrictions-are expected...

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Making Every Bite Count - The newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020-2025) offers science-based nutrition advice to develop healthy eating habits and reduce chronic disease risk. For the first time, this...

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Severe winter weather is wreaking havoc on the state of Texas-accompanied by record-low temperatures, snow and ice. These conditions have resulted in serious safety implications for many Texans. Photo: Ricardo B....

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Deepfakes Explained - Deepfakes refer to sophisticated forgeries of an image, video or audio recording. Deepfakes have been around for years-you can even find a version of them in social media applications. For instance,...

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This article focuses on Federal Guidelines for securing cargo, but this is also a very good guide for non-DOT cargo securement. Shifting cargo is one of the most common hazards in commercial transportation. Not only can...

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What is there left to say? You don't need me to tell you about the COVID pandemic and how catastrophic it has been or enumerate the ways the coronavirus has taken over our lives. We're all tired of lockdowns,...

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Keeping outdoor walking surfaces-such as parking lots and sidewalks-clear of ice in the winter is a crucial practice at many workplaces. Not only does ice removal offer aesthetic benefits, it can also help keep you,...

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On December 22, 2020, the IRS issued the 2021 optional standard mileage rates, which are used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. The 2021...

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During a recent media briefing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an update to quarantine guidelines, offering options for shorter quarantine periods. - - The CDC’s updated guidance allows...

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What You Can Do to Avoid the Flu Fever, headache, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, nausea: If these symptoms hit, you may have been bitten by the flu bug. Who is Most Vulnerable? People over age 65 are at a...

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OSHA is committed to protecting the health and safety of America’s workers and workplaces during these unprecedented times. The agency will be issuing a series of alerts designed to keep workers safe. Ensuring adequate...

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- Posted on Thursday, October 29, 2020 Employers will have to revise their COVID-19-related safety policies and practices to meet new guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on what it...

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Shorter days, fatigue, compromised night vision, rush hour and impaired drivers are some of the risks we face when driving at night. These risks become especially pronounced moving into the weekend, with fatal crashes...

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4 Keys to a Solid Safety Audit and Inspection Program When was the last time you took a long, honest look at your environment, health, and safety program? If it has been a while, or you can’t remember-or if you’ve never...

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Distribution required prior to October 15th each calendar year and when a Medicare eligible participant joins the plan Companies that sponsor a prescription drug plan are required to distribute a form called the...

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The Department of Labor has issued new regulations governing the implementation of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) after the original set of rules was overturned by a federal judge. The new...

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School ZonesBe Safe. Drive Smart. The end of summer means millions of Texas children will soon return to school. TxDOT reminds drivers to be extra cautious as school zones become more active, as well as to be aware of...

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Emergency Response Plan (ERP) for Business The actions taken in the initial minutes of an emergency are critical. A prompt warning to employees to evacuate, shelter or lockdown can save lives. A call for help to public...

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Sanford & Tatum Hosts Virtual Seminar About Employer Communication September 3, 2020 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon Online Webinar Sanford & Tatum is hosting a virtual seminar on Thursday, September 3, 2020, from 10:30...

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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) gave employers the green light to take employees' temperatures to try and ward off the spread of the coronavirus in guidance from earlier this year. But will taking...

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Sanford & Tatum is excited to offer this OSHA 10 Hour Course the afternoon of Thursday, October 15th, and the morning of Friday, October 16th. Due to COVID-19, space will be very limited. Please sign up today by...

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Have questions about regulations that affect your business? You’re not alone. Tune in to Clear Up the Chaos – Power Hour to hear about the top regulatory issues and get your questions answered. Join business leaders in...

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Texas Department of Transportation’s statewide “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” motorcycle safety and public awareness campaign urges motorists to look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections,...

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Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) update July 2020 The FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health...

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Workplace safety rules may clash with federal protections for individual rights if employees resist potential employer efforts to require them to take a prospective COVID-19 vaccine, but safety considerations will...

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NEWS RELEASEU.S. Department of Labor | July 2, 2020 WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published frequently asked questions and answers to help...

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If an employee has symptoms when they arrive at work or become sick during the day, they should immediately be separated from other employees, customers, and visitors and sent home. Employees who develop symptoms...

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What are they key differences between cloth face coverings, surgical masks and respirators? Cloth face coverings: May be commercially produced or improvised (i.e., homemade) garments, scarves, bandanas, or items made...

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Wildfire Danger Information The Texas Panhandle and South Plains have seen several red flag warnings this season. We have seen how quickly fires can spread out of control and cause significant property damage and...

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Social engineering: two words that are increasingly being talked about in normal, day-to-day conversation. If you are like me, when you first heard the term, you likely thought of something different than what this...

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FMCSA revises the hours of service (HOS) regulations to provide greater flexibility for drivers subject to those rules without adversely affecting safety. The Agency: (1) expands the short-haul exception to 150 air-...

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Source: OSHA https://www.osha.gov/pls/publications/publication.html#c19

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Source: OSHA

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Posted on Friday, May 8, 2020 Source: OSHA

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Today notice came out from the USCIS (see below email) giving all employers guidance on what to do during COVID-19 should a new hire present you with an expired List B document for I-9 form purposes. There are very...

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https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid-19/dentistry.html Dentistry Workers and Employers - Steps to Stay Safe - Posted on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 Dentistry Workers and Employers This section provides guidance for dentistry...

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Heat_Illness_Prevention-May_2020_Safety_Handout-PDF.pdfAs the temperature soars, we want you to use precaution to avoid heat illness.Heat-Related Illnesses and First Aid Most outdoor fatalities, 50% to 70%, occur in the...

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https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20200420 News Release U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ENDS TEMPORARY NON-ENFORCEMENT OF PAID LEAVE PROTECTIONS TO HELP AMERICAN WORKERS DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC - WASHINGTON, DC –...

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ISSUES ALERT TO HELP KEEP CONSTRUCTION WORKERS SAFE DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC - WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has...

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Cyber Risks Given the implications of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, countless employees across a variety of industries are working remotely. While this allows businesses to remain operational, it can create a...

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Pre-Employment Drug Testing What does a company do in the event they have to lay drivers off because business has slowed down due to COVID19? Does the driver have to take another Pre-Employment test? If a driver is...

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IMPORTANT_NEWS_FROM_BITCO_INS_CO-PAYROLL_RECORDS_2020-2.pdf

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DOL Regulations for Families First Coronavirus Response Act The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued temporary regulations under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The FFCRA created new employer...

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https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/osha/osha20200403-0The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued interim enforcement guidance to help combat supply shortages of...

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In response to the American economy reeling from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the federal government recently signed into law the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Among other...

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The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the "FFCRA"), signed by President Trump on March 18, 2020, provides small and midsize employers refundable tax credits that reimburse them, dollar-for-dollar, for the cost of...

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FFCRA_Poster_WH1422_Non-Federal.pdf FFCRA-Spanish_Posting_Non-Federal.pdf

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https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ffcra-questionsFamilies First Coronavirus Response Act: Questions and Answers - As provided under the legislation, the U.S. Department of Labor will be issuing implementing...

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Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) - Posted on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 What is the effective date of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), which includes the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act...

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IRS_Issues_Guidance_on_Tax_Credits_for_Coronavirus_COVID-19_Paid_Leave.pdf

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To view the bill - please click here: https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/hr6201/BILLS-116hr6201enr.pdf

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In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have recommended that individuals who may have been exposed to the...

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), coronaviruses are common in animal species, and most don’t affect humans. As of now, only seven different coronaviruses are known to infect humans. In...

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