Bracing For The COBRA Bite

As the Senate gets ready to (most likely) pass its version of the stimulus bill today, allow me to share the thoughts of Christopher Nadeau, chair of The Council of Employee Benefits Executives, on the COBRA regulations included in the bill.

Whatever the final regulation is, in a press conference yesterday I asked him about the role of benefits advisers and brokers in its administration:

"If reimbursement comes directly out of a payroll tax then there may not be a lot for the broker intermediary or the COBRA administrator to handle."

He was more concerned from the claims perspective:

"COBRA populations historically have run about 50% higher than an active population employee."

When the stimulus bill passes, what will be your first communication with employers? Share your thoughts below.