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In This Issue:

Clarification Provided on Allowable Employment-Based Orientation Periods for Purposes of ACA Waiting Period Limits
Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) Plans Becoming Popular with Employers

Clarification Provided on Allowable Employment-Based Orientation Periods for Purposes of ACA Waiting Period Limits

The Affordable Care Act prohibits group health plans from applying any waiting period that exceeds 90 days in plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2014. Previously issued final rules addressed the relationship between a plan's eligibility criteria and the 90-day waiting period limitation, including allowance of an orientation period. However, clarity regarding what constitutes a "reasonable and bona fide" orientation period was not provided. Recently proposed rules provide this clarification, along with definitions and more. Read more...

Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) Plans Becoming Popular with Employers

Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plans – otherwise known as "skinny" plans or limited-benefit plans – may offer a 'win-win' option for employers and employees alike in terms of an affordable option to fulfill compliance obligations for both groups under ACA's minimum coverage requirements. Learn more...

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Sincerely,

Cypress Benefit Administrators