Department Of Labor Issues Final Rules On Claims Procedures And Summary Plan Descriptions

On November 21, 2000 the U.S. Department of Labor issued final regulations setting forth minimum claims procedure requirements for employee benefit plans covered under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The regulations, covering all plans except apprenticeship plans, apply with respect to "claims for benefits" filed on or after January 1, 2002.

On the same date, the Department also issued final rules amending the regulations governing the content of summary plan descriptions (SPDs) for such employee benefit plans. The rules repeal a former exception for federally qualified HMO coverage. The regulations, as summarized below, are generally applicable as of the first day of the second plan year beginning on or after January 20, 2001.