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California law requires comprehensive infertility coverage for California-regulated, fully insured Large Group health plans. Small Group carriers must offer at least one qualifying plan, but employers aren't required to sponsor it. Learn what DMHC guidance clarified in our July Education column.

The annual gag clause attestation is due December 31. For fully insured plans, the carrier handles it. Self-funded and level-funded plans carry the responsibility themselves, usually with help from their ASO, TPA, or carrier. Here’s what brokers need to know before the deadline.

MLR rebates can raise questions. Learn how rebates are calculated, which group health plans are subject to the rules, how employers can use rebate funds, and why employee notices may create confusion. Plus, review our carrier partner reference showing which carriers will issue MLR rebates in 2026.

The ACA’s annual Special Open Enrollment Window lets Small Group employers enroll in coverage effective January 1, 2027, without standard participation or contribution requirements. Brokers should note W&B’s December 4 deadline and how the window may help groups affected by Health Net’s market exit.

Medicare Part D creditable coverage rules are changing for plan years beginning in 2027. Here’s what brokers need to know about this fall’s 2026 notice deadline, the new 2027 testing standard, and what employers should review again at renewal.

The No Surprises Act protects patients from certain out-of-network balance bills, but the provider and health plan still have to determine what gets paid. This column explains the federal IDR process, why its use has surged, and why it’s drawing more attention in health care cost discussions.

Federal health care policy discussions don’t stay in Washington, DC – they shape premiums, plan design, and access to coverage nationwide. At NABIP’s 2026 Capitol Conference, agents and industry leaders brought a unified message to Congress on transparency, affordability, and Medicare access.