How the Big Beautiful Bill Changes Employee Benefits and Health Plans
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) provides many updates that directly affect how employers design and administer benefits. While a lot of the attention focal point has been on tax changes, HR teams will feel the impact across health plans, dependent care benefits, and payroll-linked programs. Health Plan Updates HR Should Know: The bill expands what can be covered under high-deductible health plans without affecting HSA eligibility, especially for telehealth and routine primary care. This gives employers more flexibility to offer convenient, lower-cost care options. HR can communicate new telehealth and preventive-care options during enrollment and reevaluate High-Deductible Health Plan…
Wage & Hour Changes for 2026
Several wage and hour updates are taking effect nationwide in 2026. While not all changes apply to every state, we want to ensure all employees are informed, supported and aware of how these updates may affect pay practices and workplace policies. Minimum Wage Adjustments: Many states and cities across the country have increased their minimum wage rates for 2026. These changes do not affect all locations, but all applicable laws are being reviewed to ensure full compliance. Overtime & Classification Updates: Some states have updated the salary thresholds for exempt employees. Roles are being evaluated to ensure they meet the appropriate criteria…
Harassment Proliferation (Me Too Movement)
We are all seeing the deluge of harassment cases that are being reported in the media. There is a high probability that we may see an increase in harassment claims in our work environments. It is prudent to stay ahead of this and educate / remind managers that dealing with employees must be professional at all times. One of the most probable times for accusations to occur is in a disciplinary or termination setting. We always advise the employer to have at least two management level staff present in disciplinary/termination meetings. This may seem burdensome, unnecessary, etc. but it is…
