National News
NAR has been closely monitoring and advocating on several issues that would be of interest to members. One issue of particular concern is expanding access to association health plans. Below is the article highlighting NAR’s efforts:
“NAR recently co-founded a broad multi-industry coalition (ranging from state Farm Bureaus to NFIB) to promote and preserve the Department of Labor (DOL) final rule expanding access to Association Health Plans (AHPs).
Under previous rules, most small businesses and working owners, including real estate professionals, could not join AHPs, which often offer better coverage at lower cost than the individual and small-group health insurance markets. The new DOL rule clarifies that small businesses can participate and that AHPs are allowed either across state lines for a single industry or across multiple industries for a single state or metropolitan area. NAR strongly supports the new rule.
However, since then, more than a dozen states have sued DOL to overturn the new rule. Other states have issued guidelines or regulations, which restrict if not undermine the rule’s intent. The Coalition has been formed to work with federal and state regulators to help address state concerns while preserving the flexibility under the rule.
As part of the coalition and on an individual basis, NAR will continue to advocate for expanding our membership’s access to comprehensive and quality health insurance options at both the federal and regional levels.”
It remains to be seen what can and will be established moving forward.
State News
Ohio REALTORS® held their annual state convention in Columbus. REALTORS® from around the state convened on Sunday, September 16 to hear a legislative update from Vice President of Public Policy Scott Williams.
Of greatest interest was the progress of House Bill 211, Home Inspector Licensure. The update presented suggested that most members of the Senate had a favorable view of the bill. The bill is currently waiting to be assigned to a committee.
The House and Senate remain on summer recess and will resume business following November’s elections.
