Sick leave is an important fringe benefit available to State of Wisconsin employees and employees of certain public authorities. Most employees earn and, depending on usage, will accumulate hours of unused sick leave while they are employed with the state or certain public authorities.
ETF is conducting online Wisconsin Retirement System employer training sessions for employers throughout the state. This training is beneficial for employers new to WRS administration, as well as more experienced employers who have been working with the WRS for several years and would like a refresher on WRS topics.
ETF has updated the Local Employer Verification of Health Insurance Coverage (ET-4814) form. This update means that local employers will no longer collect the forms from employees and survivors that want to continue health insurance coverage after the employee retires or dies. Coverage now continues automatically, and employees and survivors only need to complete the form to cancel coverage.
Visit the new Well Wisconsin for Employers page on the ETF website. You'll find the latest employer newsletter highlighting Well Wisconsin updates, the new employer-sponsored activity, and upcoming deadlines.
Employers participating in the in the Group Health Insurance Program can now access Well Wisconsin Program information, no log in required. Visit Well Wisconsin for Employers on the ETF website to see the latest employer wellness newsletters and activity toolkits, and request onsite screening events and vaccine clinics.
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) provides for temporary 100% COBRA premium subsidies for eligible former employees who suffered an involuntary job loss, and for current or former employees who have suffered a reduction in hours that made them COBRA-eligible. A member might qualify both to use their sick leave in retirement and for the COBRA subsidy.
Positive investment returns in 2020 was the primary reason for a decrease in rates. For more information about the 2022 rates, the actuarial valuation report and presentation is available in the board meeting materials.
Due to COVID-19, encouraging employees to get their flu vaccination this fall carries extra importance. Employers may host flu clinics between August 16 – December 17, 2021.
The Group Insurance Board has extended the income continuation insurance (ICI) premium holiday for 2022, based on the strong financial position of the local ICI plan.