Gobeille v. Liberty Mutual Insurance

Whether a state can require insurance companies to file informative data without violating ERISA.

The State of Vermont requires insurance companies to provide data to the state. The Respondent, an insurance company offering employer coverage, argues this is a violation of ERISA. The Court of Appeal reversed the decision of the district court and held the requirements are in violation of ERISA. The reporting requirements imposed by the State of Vermont are connected with ERISA. ERISA plans cannot have other burdens imposed upon them bythe states.

Petitioner argues the decision of the Court of Appeals is an expansion of ERISA. Congressional intent, in both Travelers and De Bouno, limits ERISA’s power. Congress hoped to allow state law to regulate health care data themselves. The lower court failed to acknowledge and follow congressional intent. The Court of Appeals impeded upon state and federal interests. The manner in which the Court of Appeals expanded ERISA should be important to the states. Therefore, the court should immediately review the issue. Finally, the amicus brief filed by the U.S. Department of Labor proves the scope of ERISA.