On May 22, 2025, the Supreme Court issued its opinion in Kousisis v. United States, holding that the government need not prove an intent to cause economic loss, let alone actual economic loss, in order to sustain a conviction for wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343. 

While recent regulatory developments—including the Departments’ nonenforcement policy, proposed legislation, and new transparency rules—offer employers and plan fiduciaries greater flexibility and potential relief, they also underscore the need for continued vigilance. From ensuring compliance with longstanding MHPAEA obligations to evaluating benefit design changes, managing PBM relationships, and addressing nondiscrimination concerns in self-funded plans, stakeholders must stay proactive and informed to navigate the evolving health and welfare benefits landscape effectively.While recent regulatory developments—including the Departments’ nonenforcement policy, proposed legislation, and new transparency rules—offer employers and plan fiduciaries greater flexibility and potential relief, they also underscore the need for continued vigilance. From ensuring compliance with longstanding MHPAEA obligations to evaluating benefit design changes, managing PBM relationships, and addressing nondiscrimination concerns in self-funded plans, stakeholders must stay proactive and informed to navigate the evolving health and welfare benefits landscape effectively.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has signaled that it will use the False Claims Act (FCA) as a tool against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies that discriminate against certain groups.