Davidowitz v. Delta Dental Plan of California, Inc.

TAYLOR, District Judge:

This case presents the issue, on apparent first impression, whether ERISA affirmatively mandates assignability of welfare benefit plan payments notwithstanding an express plan term prohibiting assignment. ERISA expressly provides pension plan benefits are non-assignable, but is silent on welfare plan benefits. While Ninth Circuit authority holds ERISA’s silence does not bar assignments, this Court concludes ERISA’s silence cannot be interpreted to affirmatively mandate an absolute right to assign. We reverse.

I. BACKGROUND

Appellant, Delta Dental Plan of California…