Expect to see renewed passion on both sides of the same-sex marriage debate in Michigan, following Wednesday’s U.S. Supreme Court decisions to strike down the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), and to allow same-sex marriage in California.
Continue reading Defense of Marriage Act: What Today’s Supreme Court Ruling Means for Michigan
This morning, in United States v. Windsor, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act (also known as “DOMA”) is unconstitutional because it violates the 5th Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection. Therefore, same-sex marriages that are valid under state law will be recognized for purposes of federal laws.
Holding: In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court held that DOMA is unconstitutional, and same sex couples who are legally married are entitled to equal treatment under federal law. The ruling means that the federal government must recognize gay marriages deemed legal in 12 states and the District of Columbia.
Continue reading Supreme Court Ruling: Defense of Marriage Act
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) created sweeping health care reform in the United States. With implementation fast approaching, one big question remains for employers: Are you ready for the changes coming in 2014?
Continue reading Affordable Care Act: Maximizing Your Health Care Dollars for Small Employers
This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) posted on its website an updated Form 720 (with a revised date of April 2013) to report and pay the PCORI fee. The fee will be used to partially fund the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute which was implemented as part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.