Benefit

Federal Court Halts Arkansas Laws Targeting Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Igniting Debate Over Healthcare Regulation

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A federal judge has issued a ruling that temporarily halts Arkansas’ newly enacted regulations targeting pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). The decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by a major industry player, which argued that the state’s restrictions could disrupt the healthcare market and harm consumers. The federal judge, chosen to hear the case, noted concerns that Arkansas’ law could lead to increased medication prices and fewer options for patients. The current regulations aimed to impose stricter oversight on PBMs, which negotiate prescription drug prices and manage benefits for insurers. … Read more

New Mexico Sues Company for Illegally Charging Veterans for Free Benefit Services, Seeks Justice and Restitution

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Las Cruces, N.M. – New Mexico’s Attorney General Raúl Torrez is taking legal action against a Las Cruces-based company, Disabled Veterans Consultants, Inc. (DVC), accusing it of illegally charging veterans for benefits consulting services that should be offered at no cost. The services, which relate to disability benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), are typically provided for free by federally accredited entities. The lawsuit, lodged in the Third Judicial District Court, contends that DVC engaged in practices that contravene the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act by purporting to assist veterans without the … Read more

Maryland Enhances Job Posting Transparency: Governor Wes Moore Mandates Wage and Benefit Disclosures in New Law

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently enacted new legislation aimed at enhancing pay transparency for employees across the state. The law extends existing regulations, requiring all Maryland employers to disclose detailed compensation information in their job listings whether through internal channels, external outlets, or third-party services. Previously, Maryland’s transparency laws only stipulated certain requirements for wage disclosure. However, the latest amendment mandates that employers not only provide specific wage rates but also fully outline available benefits and any additional forms of compensation linked with a job position. To aid employers in adapting to … Read more

Employers and Benefit Administrators Urge Congressional Action Against Rising Drug Costs Amid State Law Surge

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As the cost of prescription drugs continues to climb, employers and benefits plan administrators across the United States are urging Congress to consider legislation that would reform the operations of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). This push is fueled by a growing body of state laws aimed at curbing PBM practices that many argue contribute to higher healthcare expenses. Industry experts highlight that while PBMs are tasked with managing prescription drug benefits on behalf of health insurers, employers, and Medicare Part D drug plans, there are increasing concerns about their role in the escalation of drug … Read more