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State Exchange Final Regulations Released

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released its final rule on state health insurance exchanges March 12th. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires states to be able to demonstrate that they can operate an exchange by January 1, 2013. Under the final rule, HHS may grant conditional approval to states that have made progress toward the implementation of an exchange by January 2013.

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State of the Insurance Marketplace

Wind direction is changing! Property Casualty (P&C) insurance rates are beginning to trend upward. This trend, known as a ‘ firming marketplace,’ began in the fourth quarter of 2011, and it is expected to gain momentum in 2012.

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Health Plan Automatic Enrollment Rules Delayed

The Department of Labor (DOL) has issued Technical Release No. 2012-01 which, among other things, has further delayed the implementation of the automatic enrollment requirements contained in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

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Identity Theft: What you can do to keep your information private

Most people are surprised just how easy it is for a thief to gather personal information. Thieves are clever: they go through your trash and mail looking for bank and credit card statements, pre-approval offers and tax information.

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Homeowner’s Insurance Goes Green

Green is everywhere these days, from our cleaning products to the local car wash operation. The residential construction industry, with a renewed focus on energy efficiency and eco-friendly materials, is one of the leaders in green innovation.

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Final Summary of Benefits and Coverage Regulations Released

The IRS, Department of Labor, and Health and Human Services (the agencies) have released final regulations regarding the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) requirements contained in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

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State of the Insurance Marketplace: Construction

Wind direction is changing! Property Casualty (P&C) insurance rates are beginning to trend upward. This trend, known as a ‘ firming marketplace,’ began in the fourth quarter of 2011, and it is expected to gain momentum in 2012.

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HHS Issues Bulletin on Definition of Essential Health Benefits

On December 16, 2011, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a bulletin outlining proposed policies that will give States flexibility to define the “ essential health benefits” required by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Instead of issuing proposed regulations, HHS chose to release the information in the form of a “pre-rule bulletin”. The announcement provides states with a framework for defining, on their own, the essential health benefits that will apply in each particular state. Implementing regulations based on this approach are expected in 2012.

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Mandatory Paid Sick Leave Law Passed in Seattle – What Can You Do Now?

As the New Year dawns, healthcare continues to dominate the landscape. But one area that continues to plague employers that have 5 or more employees located in Seattle, is the Mandatory Paid Sick Leave Law.

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Do You Need Contingent Business Income Coverage?

When businesses experience a major property loss, they also often incur substantial loss of income due to a total or partial shutdown. In addition, there may be extra expenses associated with getting the business. operational as soon as possible

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Nonprofit Boards Bring Personal Reward and Risk

Serving on a non-profit board for your homeowner association or favorite local charity is a rewarding way to give back to your community. However, have you ever considered the potential liability hazard?

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