In an effort to clear up confusion about the reform law, the DOL has released new guidance. Chances are it’ll answer at least a few of your many questions.
On the DOL’s website, the agency has posted a Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) sheet.
Included in the FAQ, the DOL clarifies some gray areas about the provision regarding dependent care coverage.
For example: Companies that voluntarily extend healthcare coverage to employees’ grandchildren, nieces and nephews — when certain eligibility conditions are met (financial support, residency, etc.) — can continue to place these eligibility restrictions on employees’ relatives who are not sons, daughters, stepchildren, adopted children or foster children.
And there’s even some good news. The guidance suggests the requirement that makes it harder for employers to retain their grandfathered status will be eased by regulators in the future.
Click here for the complete DOL guidance.