New Executive Order Calls for Expanding Access to Association Health Plans

August 17th, 2017

President Trump has signed an executive order calling upon the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to consider, among other things, expanding access to Association Health Plans, which could potentially allow employers to form groups across state lines. Until further guidance is issued or legislation is signed, however, all current ACA requirements remain in effect, including penalties for noncompliance.

Key Highlights

The following are key highlights of the order:

• Association Health Plans (AHPs): The executive order directs the DOL to consider adopting a broader interpretation of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), which could potentially allow employers in the same line of business anywhere in the country to join together to offer health insurance coverage to their employees.
• Short-Term, Limited Duration Insurance (STLDI): The executive order directs federal agencies to consider ways of expanding coverage through low-cost STLDI, which is not subject to certain ACA rules.
• Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs): The executive order directs federal agencies to consider changes to the rules regulating HRAs so that employers can make better use of these arrangements for their employees.

For more information on this executive order, click here.

Note: In general, executive orders must be implemented in a manner consistent with applicable law, including the Administrative Procedure Act, which requires extended review of and public comment on any federal rules which may be proposed as a result of an executive order. Going forward, we will promptly report changes made to any ACA requirements.