On January 30, President Biden announced that he would end the National Emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic on May 11, 2023. This means that the COVID-19 Outbreak Period under DOL and IRS relief that has been in effect since March 1, 2020, will end 60 days after May 11, or on July 10, 2023.
DOL and IRS guidance extended a number of deadlines for retirement and health and welfare plans during the Outbreak Period, including COBRA notice and premium payment deadlines, other ERISA notice and disclosure deadlines, and claims and appeals deadlines. Now that we know the Outbreak Period will be ending, plan sponsors should ensure they are prepared to comply with pre-pandemic deadlines and should work with their service providers and counsel to notify employees of any changes that may impact them.
If you need any assistance preparing for the end of the Outbreak Period, contact a Boutwell Fay Attorney at attorneys@boutwellfay.com.