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Health Care Reform: 2011 in Review

There were many developments with the health care reform law in 2011, including:

·   The W-2 reporting requirement was delayed for small employers (filing fewer than 250 Forms W-2). Larger employers must follow the rule starting with 2012 Forms W-2.

·   The 1099 reporting requirement was repealed by Congress.

·   Additional women’s preventive care guidelines were issued, effective Aug. 1, 2012.

·   Proposed guidance was announced about the summary of benefits and coverage requirement. Plans need not comply with this provision until final regulations are issued.

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EEOC Discrimination Charges Hit Record High

Employment discrimination charges filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) hit a record high in fiscal year 2011, with 99,947 charges filed.

Employers can take the following steps to avoid time-consuming and costly discrimination lawsuits:

·     Audit your practices and policies to uncover potential problems

·     Offer discrimination compliance training to all employees

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