Final Rules On Wellness Programs From Three Agencies

The two types of employee-sponsored wellness programs are “participatory” and “health-contingent.” The latter, which might include exercise or smoking cessation programs, need to be carefully structured, in some cases with a “reasonable alternative” to avoid discrimination based on a health factor. The Departments of Treasury, Labor, and Health and Human Services issued the rules, which are effective for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2014.