The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the appointment of five new members to the ERISA Advisory Council for 2025. This council provides guidance on policies and regulations affecting employee benefit plans under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
Assistant Secretary for Employee Benefits Security Lisa M. Gomez stated, "The ERISA Advisory Council plays an invaluable role advising the Department of Labor on important issues." She expressed gratitude for both incoming and outgoing members' contributions.
The newly appointed members include Christian Benjaminson in actuarial counseling, Wendell Young representing employee organizations, Jay Dorsch representing employers, Elizabeth Hopkins from the general public, and Craig Wright in investment counseling.
Christian Benjaminson is a vice president at Cheiron Inc., with over 25 years as an actuarial consultant. Wendell Young is President of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1776 Keystone State and Vice President of UFCW International Union. Jay Dorsch chairs Cozen O’Connor's Employee Benefits practice. Elizabeth Hopkins is a senior partner at Kantor & Kantor LLP with experience from her previous role at the Department of Labor. Craig Wright is a founding partner at Strategic Financial with extensive experience as a financial advisor.
Mayoung Nham will continue as Council Chair in 2025, while Anusha Rasalingam will serve as Vice Chair.
Outgoing members are Tonya Manning in actuarial counseling, Shaun C. O’Brien representing employee organizations, Holly Verdeyen representing employers, Jeffrey Lewis from the general public, and Beth Halberstadt in investment counseling.
Further details about the ERISA Advisory Council can be accessed on its web page.
