The COVID-19 pandemic has ravaged our nation and has had a particularly devastating effect on both employees and employers alike. In light of the disturbing impact on the livelihoods of millions of Americans, Congress passed  the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (“ARPA”), which provides certain eligible individuals with six (6) months of free COBRA continuation coverage due to a qualifying event that is a reduction in hours or an involuntary termination of employment.  Note, however, that a former employee who voluntarily quits, resigns, or retires cannot be considered an Assistance Eligible Individual (“AEI”).

For employers who were forced to…

Continue Reading New Employer COBRA Requirements Under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021