Pub 20-2021-2022 Issue 1

N E W J E R S E Y C O A L I T I O N O F A U T O M O T I V E R E T A I L E R S 23 new jersey auto retailer W W W . N J C A R . O R G where health insurance renewal increases were at their highest levels since 2017. For clients who receive claims data regularly, you may be able to get ( or have seen ) a report specific to your claims associated with COVID-19 treatment. Suppose you currently have a “well- ness fund” provided by your current carrier ( generally available exclusively to large groups ). In that case, you might ask if you can purchase personal protection equipment ( PPE ) using those funds. Additionally, you will want to make sure you are not at risk of losing any unused wellness dollars, perhaps requesting to roll over those funds to the new plan year. Ancillary coverages such as dental and vision were also im- pacted due to the pandemic, though differently than medical coverage. Not unexpectedly, claims for dental and vision visits were way down, particularly in the first six months of 2020. As a result, ancillary renewals were often released with no rate in- crease, and many carriers reduced monthly premiums or offered premium “vacations” in line with those reduced claims costs. As employers move into 2021, employee monitoring, testing, and vaccinations, are policy points one must consider. In addition to mask requirements, social distancing and disinfectant rules, current guidelines require employers to monitor their employees’ health to minimize the spread of the virus. This is expected to continue through much of 2021. It is important to note that testing for COVID-19 continues to be covered by health insurance based on symptoms and exposure — but is generally NOT covered as a condition of employment, such as requiring employees to show a negative test before returning to the worksite. Vaccine supplies are currently limited but expected to grow as new manufacturers get approved and gear up production. Once more vaccines become available, employers will have important decisions to make around employee vaccination strategies. Some might take a hands-off approach, allowing employees to make their own vaccination decisions. Others might take an active role, including the support of on-site vac- cinations or even mandating eligible employees get vaccinated ( excepting valid exemptions ). As past employer-based vaccina- tion strategies have proven, support at the top drives success, regardless of the path chosen. While dealerships continue to face challenges in 2021, perhaps there is a silver lining. Demand is back, if not up, for many. This is likely due to pent-up replacement needs, more people moving to the suburbs, and a general hesitancy to take mass transit. Thoughtful business decisions in the areas of benefits, personnel, and employ- ment policy can help turn the many challenges faced today into continued opportunities for long-term growth and success. Bruce Mazzarelli is Vice President of VP Employee Benefits at HUB International. He can be reached at bruce.mazzarelli@hubinternational.com. DISCLAIMER: The points contained within this article are not intended to provide legal or financial advice. Please speak to your legal or financial representation before making any decisions regarding policy changes related to the pandemic. We navigate you forward. Arent Fox’s Automotive Group drives innovative strategies. Our cutting-edge, national practice advises leading dealers and dealer groups as the industry faces unprecedented changes and disruptions. We are here to guide you through this crisis and the next one. Smart In Your World arentfox.com • Knowledgable and local Account Manager • Over 150 years of energy experience • Tailored advice from market experts • Pricing programs that fit your needs • Outstanding Customer Care Call today for your free, no-obligation natural gas or power quote! Gail Caputi, Program Manager 609.760.2043 | gcaputi@njcar.org Peter Jagodzinski, Account Manager pjagodzinski@spragueenergy.com | 732.440.0038 Customized Natural Gas & Power Solutions Take advantage of your NJ CAR membership benefits Member benefits: Scan for more information