News

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) is seeking information from the public about the effectiveness of paid employee family and medical leave. In a Request for Information (RFI) issued July 15, 2020, the DOL said it intends to gather information about the effectiveness of current state- and employer-provided paid leave programs, and how access (or…

July 14, 2020 As we move into the middle of summer, it’s apparent that COVID-19 does not diminish in warmer weather similar to the flu virus. In fact, as we’ve re-opened our economy cases have spiked with more people testing positive and additional hospitalizations occurring across the country. St Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, Joplin, and…

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has created an online tool to help workers determine whether they qualify for paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The tool works by posing a series of questions that help employees assess whether the paid leave provisions of…

(May 20, 2020) In our last communication, we focused on our return to work plans and policies that businesses should consider to protect their organization, their employees and their customers. Several areas are difficult and controversial (masks and travel) and each business should implement what works best for them. We’ll cover another “hot topic” in…

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued new model notices for group health plan administrators to use to comply with COBRA notification requirements, the agency announced on May 1, 2020. Although plan administrators are not required to use the updated model notices, the DOL generally considers their use—with the addition of appropriate plan information—to…

Among other measures aimed at easing student loan burdens during the coronavirus pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) includes a provision that temporarily allows employers to make tax-free payments of up to $5,250 toward their employees’ student loans. Under this provision, employer payments toward their employees’ qualified educational loans between…

(May 7, 2020) As we continue to move into May, our communities step down their orders and open many business operations. On Monday, the City of Branson lessened restrictions and are using the State of Missouri Guidelines. On Thursday, the City of Springfield and Greene County further reduced the restrictions allowing gathering at churches, theaters,…

On Thursday, April 23, 2020, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on and passed the newest coronavirus aid bill, which includes funding for small businesses, hospitals and coronavirus testing. The bill now heads to President Donald Trump, who indicated he will sign it into law quickly. What is included in the new bill? The bill…

(April 10, 2020) As we move into the second month of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some key issues, frequently asked questions, and insurance policy changes that are developing. We wanted to provide you with several that we feel are important. As always, reach out to us with questions, clarification or advice. HEALTH INSURANCE: Many…

(April 3, 2020) Ollis/Akers/Arney’s vision statement is “protecting tomorrow, today”. That vision goes far beyond the simple placement and servicing of insurance policies. In assessing the risks brought on by the emergence of the COVID-19 virus, we quickly determined that cash flow and the ability for businesses to navigate financial duress will soon become critical.…