Recently, the Supreme Court’s decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, 603 U.S. ____ (2024), decided on June 28, 2024, has brought significant and potentially troubling implications for ERISA disability and life insurance claimants. While the regulations issued by the Department of Labor themselves remain unchanged post-Loper, the ruling may have fundamentally altered the legal landscape concerning how courts interpret these regulations.
Previously, courts adhered to Chevron deference, giving substantial weight to interpretations of ambiguous statutory language by administrative agencies such as the Department of Labor. However, the Loper decision overturned this practice. Now, courts are required to independently analyze and interpret the law, no longer automatically deferring to agency interpretations.
The Department of Labor is the administrative agency responsible for writing the ERISA claim regulations, which include both long-term disability and life insurance claims. The DOL has issued many “interpretations“ of its regulations.
To be clear, the regulations themselves remain valid. How they are applied in court will likely evolve. Courts are likely to play a more active role in interpreting regulatory language, potentially influencing outcomes in ERISA disability and life insurance cases moving forward.
The insurance industry will most certainly step up claim denials and will use this massive change in the law to more vigorously litigate cases. The decision overturns 40 years of precedent that has been cited in dozens of Supreme Court cases and thousands of lower court rulings.
Today, more than ever, claimants who are applying for, or who have had their employer-sponsored long-term disability or life insurance claims denied, need experienced ERISA attorney representation. The Supreme Court of the United States has made the appeal and litigation of these cases a lot more complicated and fraught with potential pitfalls.
It’s crucial for those navigating ERISA disability and life insurance claims to stay informed about these developments, as they may impact case strategies and outcomes. Keeping abreast of judicial interpretations and legal trends post-Loper will be essential for both practitioners and individuals involved in ERISA-related matters. Having a knowledgeable ERISA attorney can make a significant difference in understanding these issues and effectively advocating for your rights.
Why work with our long-term disability lawyers?
BenGlassLaw fights for disabled workers and their families across the nation. What makes us unique?
Experience Ben Glass has been representing disability claimants for over 25 years. Today, we handle more long-term disability claims than any other firm in the region. Lawyers throughout the Mid-Atlantic send their toughest cases to us.
Leadership Our work in long-term disability law is recognized and respected across the nation. Disability attorneys come to us to learn our techniques and processes.
Ongoing Support Once we get you back on claim, we’ll handle the insurance company going forward, for as long as you receive LTD benefits. Let us worry about keeping you unclaimed and keeping the disability insurance company out of your hair.
