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Second Quarter Benefit News Highlights
July 21, 2026 – This quarter’s benefits news highlights several important developments impacting employer-sponsored health and welfare plans, including new Medicare creditable coverage rules, increased HIPAA enforcement activity, updated employer mandate penalties, and evolving guidance on fertility benefits. Read more to stay informed and prepared.
Individual Coverage HRAs (ICHRAs)
July 21, 2026 – ICHRAs offer employers a flexible alternative to traditional group health plans by reimbursing employees for individual health insurance and medical expenses. Read more to understand how ICHRAs work, when they may be a good fit, and the key compliance requirements employers need to consider.
Form 5500s for Health & Welfare Plans
July 21, 2026 – Form 5500 filing requirements are a key part of ERISA compliance for employer-sponsored health and welfare plans. Read more to understand which plans must file, important deadlines, and how proper plan structure can help simplify reporting and avoid penalties.
Nebraska Enacts New Mini-WARN Act
July 13, 2026 – The Nebraska Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (Mini-WARN Act) takes effect on July 18, 2026, and requires certain employers to provide advance notice before qualifying business closings or mass layoffs.
North Risk Partners Introduces Brand Refresh
June 9, 2026 – In May 2026, North Risk Partners began introducing updated visual and design elements as part of a brand refresh that reflects the firm’s growth and evolution since its founding in 2013.
McClintock Insurance, Inc. in Sioux City, IA Joins North Risk Partners
May 21, 2026 – Effective May 1, McClintock Insurance, Inc. of Sioux City, Iowa joined North Risk Partners, one of the largest independent insurance brokers and risk advisory firms in the Midwest.
Do Interns & Temporary Employees Have to Be Offered Benefits?
April 23, 2026 – Even short‑term employees can create benefit compliance risk for some employers. Read more to understand when interns and temporary employees may need to be offered coverage.
ERISA Fiduciary Duties
April 23, 2026 – ERISA litigation continues to sharpen expectations around employer fiduciary duties for benefit plans. Read more to understand what this means for plan oversight and compliance.
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (CAA 26)
April 23, 2026 – The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (CAA 26), brings major changes to pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) transparency, reporting, and fiduciary oversight for group health plans. Read more to learn what this means for employers and plan sponsors.
First Quarter Benefit News Highlights
April 23, 2026 – This quarter brings important employee benefits updates, from new HIPAA guidance and privacy notice requirements to higher ACA cost limits and evolving enforcement priorities. Read more to stay informed and prepared.
North Risk’s Hokan Almstrom Named One of Insurance Journal’s 2025 Agents of the Year
April 15, 2026 – North Risk Partners is proud to announce that Hokan Almstrom, V.P. – Employee Benefits, Risk Advisor, Partner, has been named one of Insurance Journal’s 2025 Agents of the Year.
Minnesota’s Minimum Wage Increase for 2026
April 8, 2026 – New statewide and city‑specific wage increases are now in effect in Minnesota for 2026. Learn more about how new rates affect your business and what updates you’re required to make.
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