DOL Issues Proposed Rules on MEWAs

The Department of Labor?ÇÖs Employee Benefits Security Administration released two proposed rules regarding multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs). The proposed rules would (1) establish procedures for the Secretary of Labor to issue ex parte cease and desist orders and summary seizure orders to alleged fraudulent or insolvent MEWAs and (2) amend existing reporting obligations of MEWAs. The proposed reporting regulations would require MEWAs that provide medical benefits but are not group health plans to (1) register with the Secretary of Labor prior to operating in a state and (2) annually report compliance with the applicable market reforms of the federal health reform law. The proposed rules on cease and desist orders are available here?áand the proposed rules on reporting requirements are available here.