client advisory

BOSTON — Property owners may be held liable for snow-related injuries whether
the accumulations are caused by Mother Nature or by snowplows, the state's
highest court ruled Monday in a far-reaching decision that attorneys said could
result in a wave of personal injury lawsuits.

The Massachusetts Division of Health Care Finance and Policy (DHCFP) made changes to the Fair Share Contribution regulations in October 2009. These regulations apply only to those employers with 11 or more full-time equivalent employees who work at Massachusetts locations.

This agreement includes all of OneBeacon’s small commercial and non-specialty middle-market business beginning with January 1st effective dates.

On April 29, 2009 the World Health Organization raised the worldwide pandemic influenza alert level to Phase 5. A Phase 5 alert is a “strong signal that a pandemic is imminent.” 

Mazonson LLC is encouraging our clients to monitor this risk and follow the steps outlined in this publication to help prepare your business if it’s affected by a pandemic.

COBRA Premium Subsidy:

The American Recovery And Reinvestment Act of 2009

As you are probably aware, the federal economic stimulus bill which was signed into law on February 17, 2009, includes provisions for a temporary subsidy of COBRA premiums for involuntarily terminated employees. We are providing a high level summary of the new provisions below.

Massachusetts has taken the lead in requiring businesses to develop and implement a comprehensive security program intended to protect from unauthorized disclosure the person information of the state’s residents.

AIG Private Client Group has received inquiries from concerned clients and brokers regarding insurance coverage for financial loss related to the alleged Ponzi scheme perpetrated by Bernard L. Madoff and Madoff Securities Investments. As each situation is unique, inquiries are being handled on a case-by-case basis by a dedicated claims representative.

Since the first reports surfaced concerning the alleged Madoff Ponzi scheme, we have
received a number of inquiries regarding the extent of coverage under the Masterpiece policy for Madoff related investment losses, as well as claims from our insureds.

First, I want to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a happy and safe holiday season. All of us at AIG Commercial Insurance are very grateful for your support and for your willingness to move past the headlines to get a better understanding of the state of our business.