In Connecticut, paid family and medical leave (PFML) contributions began in 2021 and benefits in 2022. In Colorado, contributions started in 2023 and benefits in 2024. This session will begin with a brief statistical introduction and comparison of Connecticut’s and Colorado’s benefits programs (e.g., the number and types of claims filed, benefits paid, leave lengths, approvals and denials, and number of private plans). The discussion will also examine the demographics of claimants and assess whether these plans are reaching marginalized employee groups. Additional topics will include the experience of both programs with affinity claims; leave stacking; fraudulent claims; private plan reporting, renewals, audits, and carrier changes; the legislative and regulatory landscape; and what’s next on the horizon.

Speakers:
Michael Cisar, Esq, General Counsel, CT Paid Leave Authority
Shelby Felton, Esq, Director & Product Compliance Counsel, Reliance Matrix
Rebecca Ford, Esq, Director of Statutory Paid Leave Products, Reliance Matrix
David Gallivan, Compliance and Appeals Branch Manager, Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance

The PWFA (Pregnancy Workers Fairness Act), which became effective June 27, 2023, requires employers across the country to comply with new accommodation obligations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Join us to discuss what your human resources team and managers need to know about their obligations under this law while also complying with the over 30 state and local pregnancy accommodation laws. You’ll leave with resources that explain how to update your reasonable accommodation policies and communications for PWFA compliance.

Speakers:
Joseph Lynett, JD, Principal, Jackson Lewis PC
Katharine Weber, JD, Principal, Jackson Lewis PC

In a post-pandemic world, attracting and keeping talent AND increasing productivity are fundamental to the survival of businesses. For companies to thrive, overall employee wellness must take on new meaning as increased access to paid leave, whether through employer-funded programs or mandatory paid leave programs, needs to be balanced with caring for workers who cover team members when they are taking time away. Aflac and Prudential surveyed employees and employers to understand the impact to workers’ physical and mental health and overall well-being when tasked with covering a co-worker’s absence. You’ll learn what your company can do proactively to balance time away and productivity. You’ll also hear about global experiences and how other countries manage extended time away.

Speakers:
Bryon Bass, Chief Executive Officer, DMEC
Jenny Merrithew, MBA, Vice President, Product and Service Excellence, Aflac
Kristin Tugman, PhD, CRC, LPC, Vice President, Health Productivity and Holistic Wellness, Prudential

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various industries, and leave and disability management is no exception. In this session, panelists will explore the potential of AI to transform the way organizations handle leave and disability management processes. The benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations associated with the use of AI in this domain will also be discussed. Gain insights from leaders of three leave and disability administrators about the future of AI in leave and disability management and how it can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience.

Speakers:
Scott Boutin, Chief Claims Officer, Reliance Matrix
Dustin Kingsbury, Vice President, Claims, The Hartford
Matt Morris, Vice President, FMLASource, ComPsych Corporation
Mia Polintan, Vice President, Leave & Absence Product Leave Solutions, Alight Solutions

Moderator:
Tim O’Connor, Consultant, Absence, Disability & Life Practice, Marsh McLennan Agency

Human resources and benefits specialists know firsthand the challenges of coordinating an entire leave and benefits package that could include disability, Family and Medical Leave Act, paid family and medical leave, supplemental health, workers’ compensation, and company-sponsored time off. As benefits continue to evolve and become more intertwined, it’s more important than ever to understand the overlap, provide employees with an easy-to-use experience, and ensure employers have streamlined administration. Join this workshop to look at real-life absence and benefits scenarios and workshop them with your peers.

Speakers:
Sharon Andrus, AVP, Paid Family and Medical Leave Product, The Hartford
Paul Dube’, Director, Disability Product, The Hartford
John Robinson, CPCU, VBS, National Absence Practice Lead, The Hartford
Allison Scaia, MBA, Vice President, Head of Health Services, The Hartford