Regulatory Roundup November 2020

As the year ends, legislation across multiple areas of human resources passed on both a federal and state level. With a long and varied list of compliance alerts to sort through, we’re here to quickly compile them all for you in one place.

Since COVID-19 altered the course of many workplaces in 2020, questions naturally arose for the IRS regarding carrying over unused benefits into the new year. For unused parking and transit funds, a new information letter confirms these benefits can remain in the account for future use or applied to another transportation fringe – but cannot be refunded.

A similar announcement was made in regards to unused Dependent Care FSA. While the IRS is not allowing refunds on allotted funds, it is allowing a grace period of 75 days following the plan year.

Looking ahead into 2021, Colorado will align with the rising HR trend of pay transparency – adopting Equal Pay Transparency Rules beginning January 1, 2021. These rules maintain clear salary ranges on job postings – including promotions – within the state, descriptions of benefits, and any other bonuses or commissions coinciding with the position.

Here is a full list of this month’s compliance and tax alerts:

2020 Year-End Legislation

• IRS announces grace period for Dependent Care FSA
• Options for unused 2020 transit benefits
• US Department of Labor announces federal unemployment rate for Virgin Islands
• New guidance for Paycheck Protection Program

2021 and Future

• Group health plans and insurers required to make price transparency disclosures
• Colorado adopts pay transparency rules
• Family and medical leave expanded in Colorado
• Privacy laws increased in California
• Rhode Island requires all residents to enroll in qualifying health coverage
• Colorado will launch statewide savings program in 2021
• PCORI fee extended an additional 10 years

Visit our Return to Work page to browse our resources to help you engage, rehire, and recruit in this new environment. You can also check out our Legislative Updates Related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) for a comprehensive summary of legislative changes and how Paylocity has responded with updates to our product to help you stay compliant. For the latest information and resources related to the coronavirus, check our COVID-19 Resources page often.

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This information is provided as a courtesy, may change, and is not intended as legal or tax guidance. Employers with questions or concerns outside the scope of a Payroll Service Provider are encouraged to seek the advice of a qualified CPA, Tax Attorney, or Advisor.