House Moves to Make Increased Defined Plan Limits Permanent

The House has voted to make the increased limits on employee and employee contributions to defined contribution plans permanent. Under current law, the increased limits as part of the 2001 tax bill would expire in 2010.

United Pilots, Non-Union Employees to Get Stock Options

United Arilines's pilots and non-union employees will be getting stock options in return for wage concessions to help keep the company afloat. United is still trying to negotiate with mechanics and flight attendants, but both unions have been much more resistant on the issue.

Hewitt Study Says Option Use Will Drop in Large Companies

A survey of 202 large US companies by HR consulting firm Hewitt Associates has found that 34% plan to decrease the proportion of employee compensation represented by options and other company stock, while 52% plan to keep the level the same, and 14% plan to increase it.

18% of Community Banks Have ESOPs

A new survey by Grant Thornton International finds that 18% of community banks have ESOPs. Seven percent offer stock options, but very few of these offer them to below the management level. ESOPs are more prevalent in community banks than in any other industry.