With mental health in the forefront as patients demand greater access to psychologists and psychiatrists, the Biden administration in July 2023 proposed new regulations aimed at requiring health insurers to expand their mental health coverage. The proposal aims to bring insurers into compliance with existing law requiring that they cover mental health benefits in parity…
If you are running a business, you need to get an early start on preparations for your small group health plan open enrollment, particularly now as so much confusion abounds about the state of health insurance in the country. With recent new regulations, options have changed for employers and you need to stay focused on…
California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has issued an order that cuts the average advisory workers’ compensation benchmark rate across all classes by 2.6%, starting Sept. 1. After holding a public hearing in June, Lara rejected the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau’s recommendation that the benchmark rate increase 0.3%. The difference between the WCIRB-proposed rate and…
Each year, InterWest recognizes employees who are identified by their co-workers as having demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to their clients, workmates as well as their community. This partnership between work and giving back makes them stand out for their invaluable contributions. ______________________________ Kelli Martin Accounting Clerk, Agency Bill Processing, Accounting Department Chico, California Kelli possesses…
After two years of massive rate increases, cyber insurance market pricing has been softening and transitioning into a buyers’ market, according to a new report by Aon Plc. In 2021 and 2022, 100% rate increases for cyber liability insurers were common, but a number of factors are finally starting to drive rates lower. Experts recommend…
The Americans with Disabilities Act, now more than 30 years old, requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. Many employers may be concerned about the cost of making those accommodations. However, a recent government study shows that the costs are typically minimal or non-existent. The report, from an office of the U.S. Department…
Skyrocketing claims costs and higher accident rates are pressuring the commercial auto insurance market, as insurers impose increasingly larger rate hikes and more are pulling out of the market or restricting who they will cover. While rate increases have been the standard for nearly a decade, since 2022 hikes are growing larger — often in…
Each year, InterWest recognizes employees who are identified by their co-workers as having demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to their clients, workmates as well as their community. This partnership between work and giving back makes them stand out for their invaluable contributions. ______________________________ Tara Brown Account Manager, Commercial Lines Department Chico, California Tara demonstrates great leadership…
Employers who were surveyed for a new report expected that group health insurance premiums would increase 5.4% this year and at a faster clip in 2024 as inflation hits medical costs. Employers said they are looking to manage growing group benefit costs without shifting costs to employees, as they realize that their staff are likely…
Commercial property insurance rates remain stubbornly high in California for businesses with properties that are susceptible to wildfire risks. Coverage is relatively easy to find at reasonable prices in any of California’s larger cities, but in small cities and towns, it’s a different story. Business with facilities in any areas that abut woodlands and other…