House committee passes open MEP bill

House committee passes open MEP bill
Insurance groups say the measure, which now heads to the full chamber for a vote, doesn't go far enough.
SEP 14, 2018

The House Ways and Means Committee passed a retirement savings bill Thursday that seeks to expand access to workplace retirement plans. The Family Savings Act of 2018, introduced by Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., was approved in a 21-14 vote. Perhaps most important for retirement plan advisers is the provision about open multiple-employer plans, known as "open MEPs." The measure would allow more small businesses to band together to offer a common retirement plan, with the aim of reducing costs, administrative work and fiduciary responsibility. Congress and the retirement industry have seized on open MEPs as a way to expand access to workplace plans. Insurance groups, including the Insured Retirement Institute and American Council of Life Insurers, said the legislation falls short because it omits two provisions — a change to annuity safe-harbor rules and a requirement for lifetime-income illustrations. The legislation is part of a three-bill package making up Republicans' Tax Reform 2.0 initiative, meant partly to make permanent some of the temporary changes to individual tax rates codified in the new tax law.

Latest News

SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund
SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund

Rajesh Markan earlier this year pleaded guilty to one count of criminal fraud related to his sale of fake investments to 10 clients totaling $2.9 million.

The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training
The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training

From building trust to steering through emotions and responding to client challenges, new advisors need human skills to shape the future of the advice industry.

Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry
Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry

"The outcome is correct, but it's disappointing that FINRA had ample opportunity to investigate the merits of clients' allegations in these claims, including the testimony in the three investor arbitrations with hearings," Jeff Erez, a plaintiff's attorney representing a large portion of the Stifel clients, said.

SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says
SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says

Chair also praised the passage of stablecoin legislation this week.

Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest
Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest

Maridea Wealth Management's deal in Chicago, Illinois is its first after securing a strategic investment in April.

SPONSORED How advisors can build for high-net-worth complexity

Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.

SPONSORED RILAs bring stability, growth during volatile markets

Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.