Hi, all.

Following is a compilation of information from various sources regarding the Affordable Care Act. Some of the information applies only to larger libraries, and some applies to all libraries (including association libraries).

Please note that this is only offered as a starting point and for informational purposes only. You will want to consult with the appropriate professionals for definitive advice.

ACA notice to employees of coverage options

This notice is required for employers (including association libraries) who offer a health plan to some or all employees regardless of the number of employees that the library employs.  If the library issues paychecks and W-2’s it should have disseminated an ACA notice to its employees by October 1, 2013.  If the municipality/county issues paychecks and W-2’s for the library, library employees should have received this form from the municipality/county. 

A sample form and further information may be found at http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform/  and http://www.njslom.org/letters/2013-0903-Affordable-Care-Act.html).  

Determine whether you are a large or small employer

If the library employs at least 50 full-time* employees, a library representative should discuss the ACA with the library’s lawyer,  labor lawyer if union and with the library’s broker or insurance consultant.

* For a rough calculation add employees who work an average of at least 30 hours per week to full-time equivalent “employees”.  For an exact calculation, see http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-12-58.pdf.

Information broken down by size of employer is available at http://www.sba.gov/healthcare.  Note that libraries are covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act

http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/whdfs7.htm.

Future informational workshop

The New Jersey League of Municipalities is presenting a program regarding this topic on December 9^th (http://www.njslom.org/seminar-documents/2013-Dec9-Healthcare.html ). You may wish to attend.  

Further information

I will share further information with you as I receive or find it. If you have questions, please consult with your attorney, insurance agent etc.

Best wishes,

Victoria

Victoria Rosch

Deputy State Librarian for Library Support Services

vrosch@PROTECTED 

609.278.2640 ext.157