For the past decade, funding has been a challenge at every level of government—local, state, and federal. The recession of 2008 was a particularly difficult time for funding across all levels of government, but it was arguably most difficult on the child welfare system as many jurisdictions had to deal with budget cuts brought about by reduced revenue. At the time, state and local government had to review priorities and determine its highest responsibility for prioritizing the distribution of reduced funds.

On January 4, the administration released the anticipated proposed rule broadening the ERISA definition of “employer” and expanding the options for small employers seeking insurance coverage, as foreshadowed in the President’s executive order on October 12, 2017.

In the following roundup, PCG health policy subject matter experts reflect upon major policy shifts and changes that have occurred in 2017, as well as preview policy developments expected in 2018. With major announcements that will affect 2018 just within the past couple of months, our subject matter experts have chosen a few key topics to reflect upon and provide insights into the potential future implications and policy directions.

Each year, in lieu of holiday cards and gifts, PCG makes donations to selected nonprofit organizations that support the missions and community interests of our public sector partners, and the populations they serve. This year, we are honored to support the following organizations...