As the economy continues roaring, the market for top talent stays exceedingly competitive. Multiple studies have consistently shown that a robust set of employee benefits is a vital component of an overall compensation package. But it’s tough for smaller companies to compete with their large counterparts, who have the advantage of economies of scale. As…
The trend toward employees working remotely that began during the COVID-19 pandemic has proven popular, and many employers have been able to shrink their office costs by leasing smaller spaces. However, these changes have resulted in increased commercial building vacancy rates, and that can leave their owners with insurance problems. The National Association of Realtors…
One of the by-products of the digital revolution – with most people staring many hours each day at tablets, smart phones and computers – is eye strain. According to The Vision Council, the average U.S. adult spends more than two hours a day looking at electronic screens. Looking at such screens for too long can…
With more than half of all private sector employees enrolled in high-deductible health plans, it’s important that employers have in place certain protocols to ensure that they are a success. As health insurance costs have risen, more employers have started offering their employees this option as the upfront premiums are often lower than with other…
The growing popularity of electric vehicles is encouraging businesses to install charging stations in parking lots for their employees and visitors. Commercial real estate owners and investors are always looking for ways to increase the value of their properties. Adding EV charging infrastructure is an obvious way to increase property value while providing a much-needed…
The U.S. Department of Labor in January 2024 finalized a new federal rule that will make it more difficult for employers to classify workers as independent contractors. The final rule formally rescinds the independent contractor rule issued by the DOL a few years ago and provides a different interpretation of how the key test of…
As health insurance and health care costs continue climbing, some employers are taking new and innovative steps to tamp down costs for themselves and their covered employees while not sacrificing the quality of care they receive. Some of the strategies require a proactive approach by engaging with their broker and insurer, and even local health…
A new rule by the Department of Labor requires firms with 100 or more employees in certain industries to electronically submit their OSHA Form 300 and 301 logs, starting in 2024. These are in addition to submission of Form 300A-Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses. The new rule applies to businesses in 104 high-hazard industries…
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has published a final rule aimed at improving how prior authorizations are handled by health insurers. The measure primarily limits the time insurers have to approve or deny requests. In addressing wait times for prior approvals, the CMS is targeting an issue that’s become a problem for some…
Employers with 10 or more employees must post their completed OSHA Form 300A by Feb. 1 and keep it posted in their workplace until April 30. The form must be posted where the company usually posts other employee notices, like minimum wage and workplace safety notices. Form 300A summarizes the total number of fatalities, missed…