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

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

Facing Jury Duty: Are UK Employers Doing Enough to Support Their Employees’ Well-Being and Financial Needs?

LONDON — Each year, 200,000 individuals across the United Kingdom are called to perform jury service, an essential though unpaid task of civic duty. This obligation requires any citizen aged between 18 and 70, chosen randomly from the electoral registry, to dedicate at least 10 days to potentially deciding the fate of those accused in criminal trials. Serving on a jury places ordinary citizens into the heart of crown courts, where they are exposed to intense and often disturbing realities of criminal behavior. For many, including seasoned professionals like journalists who regularly encounter reports of … Read more

New Hampshire Implements Controversial ‘Guns at Work’ Law, Mandating Employers to Allow Firearms in Parked Vehicles

Concord, NH — In the evolving landscape of New Hampshire’s firearm regulations, a significant shift places the state in stark contrast with its New England neighbors. Starting January 1, most employers in New Hampshire will be mandated to permit employees to have loaded guns in their vehicles at work, provided the vehicle is locked and the firearms are not visible. This amendment, signed into law by Governor Chris Sununu earlier this year, underscores New Hampshire’s broad stance on gun rights in a region known for stringent gun safety measures. The law, officially named HB 1336, … Read more

California Employers: Essential Guide to Navigating Holiday Pay Policies and Time Off

As the holiday season nears, many employers in California are revisiting their policies concerning employee leave and pay for holiday work. This period not only marks an uptick in vacation requests but also brings to the forefront the importance of adhering to state labor laws to ensure both the employers and employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities. In California, the rules surrounding holiday time off are distinct from many other jurisdictions. According to guidelines set by the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, employers in the state are not required to provide employees … Read more