Employee Benefits & Retirement Plan Insights for Employers | TruePlan

March 2025 Benefits Buzz: Legal Updates on ERISA and FMLA

Written by Amanda Humphrey | March 17, 2025

Welcome to the March 2025 edition of Benefits Buzz! In this month's issue, we explore the latest developments in employee benefits, workplace policies and legal changes that may impact you. Stay informed with insights that help you effectively navigate your benefits. 

This month's highlights 


Topic #1: ERISA fiduciary breach claims dismissed in prescription drug lawsuit  

A recent U.S. District Court ruling dismissed two claims in a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging fiduciary breaches under Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The court found the plaintiff lacked standing, emphasizing the complexities of fiduciary litigation related to prescription drug benefits. 


Topic #2: DOL clarifies FMLA and state paid family leave programs  

A new U.S. Department of Labor opinion letter explains how state-paid family and medical leave (PFML) interacts with the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Employers must designate PFML as FMLA leave when applicable, but the FMLA substitution provision does not apply unless state leave is exhausted. 

 

Download the full story 

For an in-depth look at these legal updates, download the PDF below. Stay ahead of regulatory changes that could impact your benefits. 

 

Stay informed, stay empowered and make the most of your benefits with Benefits Buzz! Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for monthly updates and never miss out on the latest in benefits news. 

 

Questions? 

Contact TruePlan. Our team of advisors can help you with questions within the scope of employee benefits.