Federal Enforcement Targets Benefits Cybersecurity
The Department of Labor shifted its 2026 enforcement priorities to target cybersecurity vulnerabilities, mental health access barriers, and surprise billing in employer benefits plans.
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Health Insurance Penalties Jump to $3,340 Per Employee
The IRS hiked ACA employer mandate penalties 25% for 2026. Companies with 50+ employees now face $3,340 per worker if they don't provide coverage. One mistake could cost $500,000+.
DOL Extends Cybersecurity Mandate to Health Benefit Plans in 2026
Department of Labor requires comprehensive cybersecurity protocols for health benefit plans, with potential penalties for inadequate data protection measures affecting employee sensitive information.
DOL Shifts From Litigation to Guidance for Small Business
The Department of Labor is moving away from lengthy enforcement battles toward providing compliance assistance through amicus briefs and guidance. This employer-friendly shift could reduce litigation risks for Long Island businesses with benefits plans.
DOL Backs Employers in 401(k) Forfeiture Lawsuits
The Department of Labor filed court briefs defending small business 401(k) sponsors against forfeiture allocation lawsuits, clarifying that standard plan decisions aren't fiduciary violations.
Employers Face 9.96% ACA Affordability Threshold in 2026
Long Island employers must adapt to the new 9.96% ACA affordability percentage, which determines compliance with federal health coverage requirements for applicable large employers.
Federal Employee Benefits Changes Shape Private Sector Plans
New federal employee benefit adjustments and retirement considerations offer insights for NY employers reviewing their own plan designs and compliance strategies in the evolving benefits landscape.