IHRSA Applauds Introduction of WHIP
Posted: November 18, 2015 in IHRSA
IHRSA: Success By Association
BOSTON, MA – The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) voiced its ardent support of the Workforce Health Improvement Program (WHIP) Act (S. 2296) introduced by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). Introduction of this important piece of legislation is a fundamental step in providing American employers and employees with the tools they need to help stop the devastating health trend toward inactivity and obesity in America.
“IHRSA commends Senator Cornyn for his admirable leadership and foresight in seeing how wellness in the workplace is an issue that translates into a stronger U.S. economy,” said Joe Moore, President and CEO of IHRSA. “By keeping workers healthy, we control the cost of health care, increase productivity, and bolster the ability of America’s businesses to compete in a global economy. Undoubtedly, primary prevention – supported by legislation like the WHIP Act and other public policy endeavors – is the most cost-effective means of securing the future health and prosperity of America. The WHIP Act takes a significant step in this direction.”
Under current tax law, businesses small and large are permitted to deduct the cost of on-site exercise facilities, and employees are not taxed on the benefit. However, if an employer provides this same benefit at an off-site facility, employees who take advantage of the benefit must pay income tax on the value of the subsidy. This requirement is in direct contradiction to the goal of promoting healthful activity in the workplace and is simply unfair to employees of firms who are unable to provide an onsite fitness center to all employees. The WHIP Act would eliminate this inequity, reaffirming employers’ right to deduct the cost of providing off-site health club or gym benefits and preventing this wellness benefit from being considered additional income for employees.
“The WHIP Act will help America’s businesses build a strong employee base,” Moore continued. “Since many employers do not have the resources or office space to offer on-site exercise rooms and fitness programs, the WHIP Act makes it easier for all employers to offer health-promoting exercise incentives to their workers without any tax complications. The introduction of the WHIP Act makes it clear that Senator Cornyn is a champion of primary prevention, and is truly committed to improving the health of all Americans.”
