Swanson v. Hearst Corp. Long Term Disability Plan

Appellant Debra Swanson challenges the district court’s grant of summary judgment to Appellee Hearst Corp. Long Term Disability Plan (“the Plan”), on the grounds that Swanson failed to exhaust administrative remedies prior to bringing suit. We AFFIRM.

Through her employment with the Houston Chronicle, Appellant Swanson obtained coverage under a long-term disability benefits policy underwritten and administered by Hartford Life Insurance Co. (“Hartford”). The policy falls within the Plan, which is governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), 29 U.S.C. §§ 1001-1461. Swanson…