Obama admin. weighs new consumer rights for retirement, disability and health plans

Obama admin. plans major employee benefits upgrade

WASHINGTON — Obama administration officials say they’re planning a major upgrade to consumer protections for millions of workers covered by job-based health, disability insurance and retirement plans.

The focus is on spelling out consumer rights when a dispute arises with the plan, for example when an employee’s claim for disability benefits is denied.

Assistant Labor Secretary Phyllis Borzi says “people need to have a clear roadmap to appeal claims.”

Department officials say they are aiming for new regulations that require plans to clearly explain their decisions, how employees can appeal them, and what workers need to know to safeguard their rights.