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Department of Health and Human Services Releases Affordable Insurance Exchange Proposed Regulations

Client Alert | 1 min read | 07.12.11

A set of two proposed rules governing a host of requirements for implementation of Affordable Insurance Exchanges was released by the Department of Health & Human Services on July 11, 2011. The exchange program is a key component of the health law reforms promulgated under PPACA. Together, the new proposed rules provide guidance for the operation of the anticipated exchange program, which aims to create a competitive marketplace for information about and purchase of affordable private health insurance by individuals and small businesses. The exchange program is currently set to go into effect on January 1, 2014. The proposed regulations separately address a number of issues regarding program requirements and implementation:

  • The first proposed rule sets forth core federal standards for creation and operation of exchanges on a state-by-state basis. In addition, the proposed rule addresses requirements for employer participation in the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) and establishes certification requirements for health plan participation in the exchange program. As a general matter, the proposed rule aims to promote flexibility for states in choosing how to design and implement exchange programs under the regulations. Comments are due 75 days after publication in the Federal Register, which is slated for July 15.
  • The second proposed rule focuses on premium rate stabilization and sets forth standards for both states and health plans for achieving this goal. Specifically, the proposed state-based reinsurance program is designed to adjust for uncertain risks by making payments in the individual market where costs are particularly high. In addition, a temporary federal risk corridor program aims to limit both issuer losses and gains. Finally, a state-based risk adjustment program will make payment to health insurers with especially high-risk beneficiaries. Comments on this proposed rule are also due 75 days after publication in the Federal Register, set for July 15.

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Client Alert | 5 min read | 08.21.26

FTC Proposes Enforcement Policy Statement on Personalized Pricing: What Businesses Need to Know

On August 19, 2026, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a proposed Enforcement Policy Statement on personalized pricing — the practice of companies using consumers’ personal data to set individualized prices, discounts, coupons, or other incentives. The proposed statement, which is open for public comment for 30 days following publication in the Federal Register, marks a major step up in the FTC’s focus on data-driven pricing strategies and puts businesses across industries on notice that undisclosed or inadequately disclosed personalized pricing will not be tolerated. Importantly, while the proposed statement is not a binding legal requirement and does not create new legal obligations, it serves as an enforcement warning that the FTC is prepared to use its existing enforcement authority under Section 5 of the FTC Act (Section 5) and is also a potential harbinger of rulemaking. Businesses that engage in — or are considering — personalized pricing should carefully assess their disclosure practices and data collection procedures against the standards articulated in this statement....

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