It’s May 4th and, to some, it just means you’re one day closer to the weekend. But for Star Wars fans like Talking Benefits host, Julie Stich, add one little preposition to that date and it becomes an unofficial, international holiday. May the Fourth be with you!

So join us on a journey to a galaxy, far, far away (or close by, depending on where you’re listening) . . . As we hear about the latest benefits-related battles going on in Washington, D.C..

This month’s show—Episode 5: Washington Strikes Again
(Length: 24:17)

Impossible to see, the future is. But Julie, Kelli and Justin provide insights on what the future might bring as they discuss the latest developments:

• Recap of MPRA and paid leave activity
• American Health Care Act—The vote. What’s next?
• Legislative Process 101—Julie explains how a bill becomes a law
• Insurance industry and exchanges and cost-sharing subsidies
• Confirmation of Labor Secretary, Alexander Acosta—review of his likely agenda and actions including Fiduciary Rule, PBGC and DOL Overtime Rule
• Tax Reform impact on retirement plans—401(k) contribution deductions.

Resources mentioned in this episode
Benefits Transition Tracker
Fraud Prevention Institute for Employee Benefit Plans
Trump’s 100-Day Look Back: Labor and Employment Law Update

Bonus segment! We asked International Foundation staff to step up to the mic with their best Star Wars character impersonations. You’ll hear them throughout the episode and in a few out-takes at the very end.

Subscribe to Talking Benefits on iTunes, Stitcher or your favorite podcast app, or watch for new episodes on the International Foundation website.

Ann Godsell, CEBS
Social Business Strategist at the International Foundation