Part XII - Occupational Safety and Health Administration · 12/3/2001 · whether the rule should be continued without change, amended, or rescinded. The next 12-month review list

Monday,

December 3, 2001

Part XII

Department of LaborSemiannual Regulatory Agenda

VerDate Nov< 5>2001 10:33 Nov 23, 2001 Jkt 197001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4717 Sfmt 4717 D:\UNIFIED\UAPRESS\UA011012.OUT apps27 PsN: UA011012

61840 Federal Register / Vol. 66, No. 232 / Monday, December 3, 2001 / Unified Agenda

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR (DOL)

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Office of the Secretary

20 CFR Chs. I, IV, V, VI, VII, and IX

29 CFR Subtitle A and Chs. II, IV, V,XVII, and XXV

30 CFR Ch. I

41 CFR Ch. 60

48 CFR Ch. 29

Semiannual Agenda of RegulationsAGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Labor.ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

SUMMARY: This document sets forth theDepartment’s semiannual agenda ofregulations that have been selected forreview or development during thecoming year. The Department’s agencieshave carefully assessed their availableresources and what they can accomplishin the next twelve months and haveadjusted their agendas accordingly.

The agenda complies with therequirements of both Executive Order12866 and the Regulatory FlexibilityAct. The agenda lists all regulations thatare expected to be under review ordevelopment between October 2001 andOctober 2002 as well as those completedduring the past six months.FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:Barbara Bingham, Acting Director forthe Office of Regulatory Economics,Office of the Assistant Secretary forPolicy, U.S. Department of Labor, 200Constitution Avenue NW., Room S-2312, Washington, DC 20210, (202) 693-5959. NOTE: Information pertaining to a specificregulation can be obtained from the agencycontact listed for that particular regulation.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ExecutiveOrder 12866 and the Regulatory

Flexibility Act require the semiannualpublication in the Federal Register of anagenda of regulations. As permitted bylaw, the Department of Labor iscombining the publication of its agendasunder the Regulatory Flexibility Act andExecutive Order 12866.

Executive Order 12866 becameeffective September 30, 1993, and, insubstance, requires the Department ofLabor to publish an agenda listing allthe regulations it expects to have underactive consideration for promulgation,proposal, or review during the coming1-year period. The focus of alldepartmental regulatory activity will beon the development of effective rulesthat advance the Department’s goals andthat are understandable and usable tothe employers and employees in allaffected workplaces.

For this edition of the Department ofLabor’s regulatory agenda, the mostimportant significant regulatory actionsare included in The Regulatory Plan,which appears in part II of this issue ofthe Federal Register. The RegulatoryPlan entries are listed in the table ofcontents below and are denoted by abracketed bold reference, which directsthe reader to the appropriate sequencenumber in part II.

The Regulatory Flexibility Act becameeffective on January 1, 1981, and appliesonly to regulations for which a notice ofproposed rulemaking was issued on orafter that date. It requires theDepartment of Labor to publish anagenda, listing all the regulations itexpects to propose or promulgate thatare likely to have a ‘‘significanteconomic impact on a substantialnumber of small entities’’ (5 U.S.C. 602).

The Regulatory Flexibility Act (undersection 610) also requires agencies toperiodically review rules ‘‘which haveor will have a significant economicimpact upon a substantial number ofsmall entities’’ and to annually publish

a list of the rules that will be reviewedduring the succeeding 12 months. Thepurpose of the review is to determinewhether the rule should be continuedwithout change, amended, or rescinded.

The next 12-month review list for theDepartment of Labor is provided belowand public comment is invited on thelisting. A brief description of each rule,the legal basis for the rule, and theagency contact are provided with eachagenda item.

Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration

Occupational Exposure to EthyleneOxide (RIN 1218-AB60)

Grain Handling Facilities (RIN 1218-AB73)

Excavations (RIN 1218-AC02)

Presence Sense Device Initiation ofMechanical Power Presses (RIN 1218-AC03)

Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration

Bonding Rules Under ERISA 21974(1210-AA82)

Enforcement Pursuant to Section502(6)(2) (1210-AA83)

Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section502(c)(2) (1210-AA84)

Assessment of Civil Penalties underERISA Section 502(c)(2) (1210-AA85)

All interested members of the publicare invited and encouraged to letdepartmental officials know how ourregulatory efforts can be improved, and,of course, to participate in and commenton the review or development of theregulations listed on the agenda.

Elaine L. Chao,Secretary of Labor.

Office of the Secretary—Proposed Rule Stage

SequenceNumber Title

RegulationIdentification

Number

2002 Production or Disclosure of Information or Materials ................................................................................................... 1290-AA17


61841Federal Register / Vol. 66, No. 232 / Monday, December 3, 2001 / Unified Agenda

DOL

Employment Standards Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2003 Defining and Delimiting the Term ‘‘Any Employee Employed in a Bona Fide Executive, Administrative, or Profes-sional Capacity’’ (ESA/W-H) (Reg Plan Seq No. 81) .................................................................................................. 1215-AA14

2004 Regulations To Implement the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994, 29 CFR Parts 4 and 5, 41 CFR Parts50-201 and 50-206 ....................................................................................................................................................... 1215-AA96

2005 Implementation of the 1996 Amendments to the Fair Labor Standards Act ................................................................ 1215-AB132006 Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors for Special Disabled Vet-

erans and Veterans of the Vietnam Era ....................................................................................................................... 1215-AB242007 Stock Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, and Bona Fide Employee Stock Purchase Programs Under the Fair

Labor Standards Act ..................................................................................................................................................... 1215-AB312008 Obligation of Federal Contractors and Subcontractors, Notice of Employee Rights Concerning Payment of Union

Dues or Fees (Reg Plan Seq No. 82) ......................................................................................................................... 1215-AB33

References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.

Employment Standards Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2009 Child Labor Regulations, Orders, and Statements of Interpretation (ESA/W-H) (Reg Plan Seq No. 83) .................. 1215-AA092010 Labor Condition Applications and Requirements for Employers Using Nonimmigrants on H-1B Visas in Specialty

Occupations and as Fashion Models (Reg Plan Seq No. 84) .................................................................................... 1215-AB092011 Minimum Wage and Overtime Violations—Civil Money Penalties (29 CFR 578); Child Labor Violations—Civil

Money Penalties (29 CFR 579); Adjustment of Civil Money Penalties for Inflation .................................................... 1215-AB202012 Government Contractors: Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Obligations, Executive Order 11246

(ESA/OFCCP) (Revised) .............................................................................................................................................. 1215-AB28


Employment Standards Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2013 Application of the Fair Labor Standards Act to Domestic Service ............................................................................... 1215-AA822014 Claims for Compensation Under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act ............. 1215-AB32

Employment Standards Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2015 Records To Be Kept by Employers Under the Fair Labor Standards Act ................................................................... 1215-AB03

Employment and Training Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2016 Labor Certification Process for the Permanent Employment of Aliens in the United States (Reg Plan Seq No. 85) 1205-AA662017 Federal-State Unemployment Compensation Program; Unemployment Insurance Performance System ................. 1205-AB102018 Senior Community Service Employment Program (Reg Plan Seq No. 86) ................................................................ 1205-AB28




DOL

Employment and Training Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2019 Indian and Native American Welfare-to-Work Program ............................................................................................... 1205-AB162020 Labor Certification and Petition Process for the Temporary Employment of Nonimmigrant Aliens in Agriculture in

the United States; Modification of Fee Structure ......................................................................................................... 1205-AB242021 Labor Condition Applications and Requirements for Employers Using Nonimmigrants on H-1B Visas; Implementa-

tion of Electronic Filing ................................................................................................................................................. 1205-AB292022 Labor Certification and Petition Process for the Temporary Employment of Nonimmigrant Aliens in Agriculture in

the U.S.: Delegation of Authority to Adjudication Petitions; Deferral of Effective Date ............................................... 1205-AB302023 Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program Amendment .......................................................................................... 1205-AB31

Employment and Training Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2024 Federal-State Unemployment Compensation (UC) Program; Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information in StateUC Records .................................................................................................................................................................. 1205-AB18

2025 Attestations by Facilities Temporarily Employing H-1C Nonimmigrant Aliens as Registered Nurses ......................... 1205-AB27

Employment and Training Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2026 Services to Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers, Job Service Complaint System, Monitoring, and Enforcement ..... 1205-AA372027 Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program, Amendment to Regulations ................................................................ 1205-AB022028 Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers—Implementation of 1988 Amendments ................................................... 1205-AB052029 Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers—Transitional Adjustment Assistance NAFTA-TAA .................................. 1205-AB072030 Establishment of Fees for Immigration Programs Administered by the Employment and Training Administration .... 1205-AB142031 Welfare-to-Work (WTW) Grants .................................................................................................................................... 1205-AB152032 Labor Certification Process for the Permanent Employment of Aliens in the United States; Refiling of Applications 1205-AB25

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2033 Bonding Rules Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (Section 610 Review) ..................... 1210-AA822034 Requests for Enforcement Pursuant to Section 502(b)(2) (Section 610 Review) ...................................................... 1210-AA832035 Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section 502(c)(2) (Section 610 Review) ...................................................................... 1210-AA842036 Procedures for the Assessment of Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section 502(c)(2) (Section 610 Review) .............. 1210-AA85

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2037 Rulemaking Relating to Notice Requirements for Continuation of Health Care Coverage (Reg Plan Seq No. 87) .. 1210-AA602038 Regulation Exempting Certain Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers From Bonding Requirements .................... 1210-AA80




DOL

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2039 Definition of Collective Bargaining Agreement (ERISA Section 3(40)) ........................................................................ 1210-AA482040 Regulations Implementing the Health Care Access, Portability and Renewability Provisions of the Health Insur-

ance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ........................................................................................................... 1210-AA542041 Health Care Standards for Mothers and Newborns ..................................................................................................... 1210-AA632042 Reporting Requirements for MEWAs Providing Medical Care Benefits ....................................................................... 1210-AA642043 Elimination of Filing Requirements for Summary Plan Descriptions ............................................................................ 1210-AA662044 Requirement To Furnish Plan Documents Upon Request by the Secretary of Labor ................................................. 1210-AA672045 Civil Penalty for Failure To Furnish Certain Plan Documents ...................................................................................... 1210-AA682046 Electronic Disclosure of Employee Benefit Plan Information ....................................................................................... 1210-AA712047 Rulemaking Relating to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 ............................................................ 1210-AA752048 Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program (VFC Program) (Reg Plan Seq No. 88) ...................................................... 1210-AA762049 Prohibiting Discrimination Against Participants and Beneficiaries Based on Health Status ........................................ 1210-AA772050 Delinquent Filer Voluntary Compliance Program (DFVC Program) (Reg Plan Seq No. 89) ...................................... 1210-AA86


Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2051 Adequate Consideration ................................................................................................................................................ 1210-AA152052 Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section 502(1) ................................................................................................................ 1210-AA372053 Mental Health Benefits Parity ....................................................................................................................................... 1210-AA62

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2054 Individual Benefits Reporting Requirements for Defined Contribution Plans ............................................................... 1210-AA652055 Soft Dollar (Interpretive Bulletin) ................................................................................................................................... 1210-AA742056 Delay of Applicability Date for Claims Regulation Under ERISA ................................................................................. 1210-AA89

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2057 Occupational Exposure to Coal Mine Dust (Lowering Concentration Limit) ................................................................ 1219-AB082058 Asbestos Exposure Limit (Reg Plan Seq No. 90) ....................................................................................................... 1219-AB24


Mine Safety and Health Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2059 Belt Entry Use as Intake Aircourse To Ventilate Working Sections ............................................................................. 1219-AA762060 Independent Laboratory Testing ................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA872061 Improving and Eliminating Regulations ........................................................................................................................ 1219-AA982062 Mine Rescue Teams ..................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB20



DOL

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2063 Hazard Communication ................................................................................................................................................. 1219-AA472064 Electric Motor-Driven Mine Equipment and Accessories and High-Voltage Longwall Equipment Standards for Un-

derground Coal Mines .................................................................................................................................................. 1219-AA752065 Verification of Underground Coal Mine Operators’ Dust Control Plans and Compliance Sampling for Respirable

Dust (Reg Plan Seq No. 91) ....................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB142066 Determination of Concentration of Respirable Coal Mine Dust (Reg Plan Seq No. 92) ............................................ 1219-AB182067 Diesel Particulate Exposure of Underground Metal and Nonmetal Miners .................................................................. 1219-AB28


Mine Safety and Health Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2068 Air Quality, Chemical Substances, and Respiratory Protection Standards .................................................................. 1219-AA482069 Requirements for Approval of Flame-Resistant Conveyor Belts .................................................................................. 1219-AA92

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2070 Confined Spaces ........................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA542071 Metal/Nonmetal Impoundments .................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA832072 Surface Haulage ........................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA932073 Safety Standard Revisions for Underground Anthracite Mines .................................................................................... 1219-AA962074 Electrical Grounding Standards for Metal and Nonmetal Mines .................................................................................. 1219-AB012075 Training and Retraining of Miners ................................................................................................................................ 1219-AB022076 Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard .......................................................................................................................... 1219-AB122077 Safety Standards for Self-Contained Self-Rescue Devices in Coal and Metal/Nonmetal Underground Mines .......... 1219-AB192078 Verification of Surface Coal Mine Dust Control Plans .................................................................................................. 1219-AB212079 Surge and Storage Piles ............................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB222080 Escapeways and Refuges ............................................................................................................................................ 1219-AB232081 Accident Investigation Hearing Procedures .................................................................................................................. 1219-AB262082 Continuous Monitoring of Respirable Coal Mine Dust in Underground Coal Mines .................................................... 1219-AB27

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2083 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefiting From Federal Fi-nancial Assistance ........................................................................................................................................................ 1291-AA28

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management—Final Rule Stage



Number

2084 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance Fromthe Department of Labor .............................................................................................................................................. 1291-AA21

2085 Implementation of the Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Requirements of the Workforce Investment Act of1998 .............................................................................................................................................................................. 1291-AA29



DOL

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management—Long-Term Actions



Number

2086 Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations ............................................................................ 1291-AA262087 Audit Requirements for Grants, Contracts, and Other Agreements ............................................................................. 1291-AA272088 Grants and Agreements ................................................................................................................................................ 1291-AA302089 Effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

of 1973 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1291-AA312090 Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide Requirements for Drug

Free Workplace (Grants) 29 CFR 98 ........................................................................................................................... 1291-AA33

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management—Completed Actions



Number

2091 Department of Labor Acquisition Regulation ................................................................................................................ 1291-AA20

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2092 Confined Spaces in Construction (Part 1926): Preventing Suffocation/Explosions in Confined Spaces .................... 1218-AB472093 Occupational Exposure to Ethylene Oxide (Section 610 Review) .............................................................................. 1218-AB602094 Electric Power Transmission and Distribution; Electrical Protective Equipment in the Construction Industry ............ 1218-AB672095 Grain Handling Facilities (Section 610 Review) .......................................................................................................... 1218-AB732096 Occupational Exposure to Beryllium ............................................................................................................................. 1218-AB762097 Hearing Loss Prevention in Construction Workers ....................................................................................................... 1218-AB892098 Cranes, Derricks, Hoists, Elevators, and Conveyors ................................................................................................... 1218-AC012099 Excavations (Section 610 Review) .............................................................................................................................. 1218-AC022100 Presence Sensing Device Initiation of Mechanical Power Presses (Section 610 Review) ........................................ 1218-AC03

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2101 Assigned Protection Factors: Amendments to the Final Rule on Respiratory Protection (Reg Plan Seq No. 93) .... 1218-AA052102 Occupational Exposure to Tuberculosis ....................................................................................................................... 1218-AB462103 General Working Conditions for Shipyard Employment ............................................................................................... 1218-AB502104 Fire Protection in Shipyard Employment (Part 1915, Subpart P) (Shipyards: Fire Safety) (Reg Plan Seq No. 94) .. 1218-AB512105 Standards Improvement (Miscellaneous Changes) for General Industry, Marine Terminals, and Construction

Standards (Phase II) (Reg Plan Seq No. 95) ............................................................................................................. 1218-AB812106 Changes to State Plans ................................................................................................................................................ 1218-AB91


Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2107 Update and Revision of the Exit Routes Standard (Reg Plan Seq No. 96) ............................................................... 1218-AB822108 Signs, Signals, and Barricades (Reg Plan Seq No. 97) .............................................................................................. 1218-AB882109 Procedures for Handling of Discrimination Complaints Under the Aviation Investment and Reform Act ................... 1218-AB99




DOL

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2110 Longshoring and Marine Terminals (Parts 1917 and 1918) — Reopening of the Record (Vertical Tandem Lifts(VTLs)) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AA56

2111 Scaffolds in Shipyards (Part 1915 — Subpart N) ......................................................................................................... 1218-AA682112 Access and Egress in Shipyards (Part 1915, Subpart E) (Shipyards: Emergency Exits and Aisles) ......................... 1218-AA702113 Glycol Ethers: 2-Methoxyethanol, 2-Ethoxyethanol, and Their Acetates: Protecting Reproductive Health ................. 1218-AA842114 Accreditation of Training Programs for Hazardous Waste Operations (Part 1910) ..................................................... 1218-AB272115 Indoor Air Quality in the Workplace .............................................................................................................................. 1218-AB372116 Injury and Illness Prevention ......................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB412117 Occupational Exposure to Hexavalent Chromium (Preventing Occupational Illness: Chromium) ............................... 1218-AB452118 Fall Protection in the Construction Industry .................................................................................................................. 1218-AB622119 Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica ................................................................................................................. 1218-AB702120 Employer Payment for Personal Protective Equipment ............................................................................................... 1218-AB772121 Walking Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems (1910) (Slips, Trips and Fall Prevention) ............ 1218-AB802122 Revision and Update of Subpart S—Electrical Standards ........................................................................................... 1218-AB952123 Commercial Diving Operations: Revision ..................................................................................................................... 1218-AB97

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2124 Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) for Air Contaminants .......................................................................................... 1218-AB542125 Metalworking Fluids: Protecting Respiratory Health ..................................................................................................... 1218-AB582126 Update and Revision of the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Standard .............................................................. 1218-AB612127 Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals .................................................................................... 1218-AB632128 Revision and Update of the Mechanical Power-Transmission Apparatus Standard ................................................... 1218-AB662129 Safety Standards for Scaffolds Used in the Construction Industry—Part II ................................................................. 1218-AB682130 Safety and Health Programs for Construction .............................................................................................................. 1218-AB692131 Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout) in Construction (Part 1926) (Preventing Construction Injuries/Fatalities:

Lockout) ........................................................................................................................................................................ 1218-AB712132 Consolidation of Records Maintenance Requirements in OSHA Standards ............................................................... 1218-AB782133 Oil and Gas Well Drilling and Servicing ....................................................................................................................... 1218-AB832134 Update and Revision of the Spray Applications Standard ........................................................................................... 1218-AB842135 Occupational Exposure to Perchloroethylene ............................................................................................................... 1218-AB862136 Sanitation in the Construction Industry ......................................................................................................................... 1218-AB872137 Update of Revision of the Woodworking Machinery Standard ..................................................................................... 1218-AB922138 Ergonomics Programs in Construction (Part 1926): Preventing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among

Construction Workers ................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB942139 Occupational Health Risks in the Manufacture and Assembly of Semiconductors ..................................................... 1218-AB962140 Occupational Injury and Illness Recording and Reporting Requirements .................................................................... 1218-AC00

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment & Training—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2141 Annual Report for Federal Contractors (2002 Revisions) ............................................................................................ 1293-AA08

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment & Training—Final Rule Stage



Number

2142 Annual Report for Federal Contractors ......................................................................................................................... 1293-AA07



Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageOffice of the Secretary (OS)

2002. PRODUCTION OR DISCLOSUREOF INFORMATION OR MATERIALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 552as amended; 5 USC Reorganization PlanNo. 6 of 1950; EO 12600, 52 FR 23781(June 25, 1987)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 70

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulation willincorporate the provisions of the 1996

FOIA amendments. These includeextending DOL processing time from 10to 20 days for most FOIA requests andrequiring that all reading roommaterials created since November 1,1996, be made available by electronicmeans such as the Internet.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Miriam McD. Miller,Co-Counsel for Administrative Law,Division of Legislation and LegislativeCounsel, Department of Labor, Office ofthe Secretary, Room N2428, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-5500Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1290–AA17

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageEmployment Standards Administration (ESA)

2003. DEFINING AND DELIMITING THETERM ‘‘ANY EMPLOYEE EMPLOYEDIN A BONA FIDE EXECUTIVE,ADMINISTRATIVE, ORPROFESSIONAL CAPACITY’’ (ESA/W-H) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.81 in part II of this issue of the FederalRegister.

RIN: 1215–AA14

2004. REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENTTHE FEDERAL ACQUISITIONSTREAMLINING ACT OF 1994, 29 CFRPARTS 4 AND 5, 41 CFR PARTS 50-201 AND 50-206Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 103-355, 108 Stat.3243

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 4; 29 CFR 5; 41CFR 50 to 201; 41 CFR 50 to 206

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, May11, 1995. Final, Statutory, October 1, 1995.

Abstract: The Federal AcquisitionStreamlining Act of 1994, signed onOctober 13, 1994, amended several Actsadministered by the Department ofLabor: (1) the Contract Work Hours andSafety Standards Act (CWHSSA) tolimit its applicability to contracts in anamount of $100,000 or greater; (2) theDavis-Bacon Act (DB) to providewaivers from the Act’s prevailing wagerequirements under selected laws forvolunteers performing services to aState or local government or agencyand for volunteers performing servicesto a public or private nonprofitrecipient of Federal assistance; and (3)the Walsh-Healey Public Contracts Act

(PCA) to eliminate the requirementsthat contractors on covered contracts beeither manufacturers or regular dealersin the items to be supplied under thecontract but retains the Secretary ofLabor’s authority to define the terms‘‘regular dealer’’ and ‘‘manufacturer.’’ Afinal rule implementing the CWHSSAand PCA changes was published onAugust 5, 1996 (61 FR 40714).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/07/95 60 FR 46553NPRM Comment

Period End 10/10/95

Final Rule - Walsh-Healey/CWHSSARule

08/05/96 61 FR 40714

Second NPRM 03/00/02


Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Annabelle T.Lockhart, Acting Administrator, Wageand Hour Division, Department ofLabor, Employment StandardsAdministration, 200 ConstitutionAvenue, NW, FP Building, RoomS3502, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432

RIN: 1215–AA96

2005. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 1996AMENDMENTS TO THE FAIR LABORSTANDARDS ACT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 104-188, sec 2101to 2105; 29 USC 201 et seq

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 4; 29 CFR 531;29 CFR 541; 29 CFR 778; 29 CFR 785;29 CFR 790; 29 CFR 870; 41 CFR 50-202


Abstract: The ‘‘Small Business JobProtection Act of 1996’’ (H.R. 3448) wasenacted on August 20, 1996, as PublicLaw 104-188. Title II of this enactmentamended the Portal-to-Portal Act (PA)and the Fair Labor Standards Act(FLSA). The PA amendment excludes(under certain circumstances) fromcompensable ‘‘hours worked’’ the timespent by an employee in home-to-worktravel in an employer-provided vehicle.The FLSA amendments: (1) increase the$4.25 Federal minimum hourly wage by$.90 in two steps over two years (i.e.,to $4.75 on October 1, 1996, and to$5.15 on September 1, 1997); (2)provide a $4.25 subminimum wage foryouth under age 20 in their first 90calendar days of employment with anemployer; (3) set the employer’s directwage payment obligation for tippedemployees at $2.13 per hour (providedsuch employees receive the balance ofthe full minimum wage in tips); and(4) set the hourly compensationrequirements at not less than $27.63per hour for certain exemptprofessional employees in computer-related occupations. Changes will berequired in the regulations to reflectthese amendments.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 04/00/02




DOL—ESA Proposed Rule Stage



RIN: 1215–AB13

2006. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION ANDNONDISCRIMINATION OBLIGATIONSOF CONTRACTORS ANDSUBCONTRACTORS FOR SPECIALDISABLED VETERANS ANDVETERANS OF THE VIETNAM ERA


Legal Authority: 38 USC 4211; 38 USC4212; PL 102-16; PL 102-127; PL 102-484; PL 95-520; PL 93-508, amended;PL 94-502; PL 96-466; PL 101-237; PL97-306; PL 98-223; PL 105-339

CFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-250


Abstract: OFCCP proposes to amendthe regulations implementing theVietnam Era Veterans’ ReadjustmentAssistance Act (VEVRAA) 38 USC4212, to conform with the VeteransEmployment Opportunities Act (theAct) of 1998 and the Veterans Benefitsand Health Care Improvement Act of2000 (VBHCIA). The Act and VBHCIAof 2000 increase the current thresholdfor coverage from $10,000 to $25,000.The Act and VBHCIA of 2000 expandthe existing definition of Veterans, i.e.,special disabled veterans and veteransof the Vietnam Era, to include recentlyseparated veterans and any other

veterans who served on active dutyduring a war or in a campaign orexpedition for which a campaign badgehas been authorized. Recently separatedveterans means any veteran during theone-year period beginning on the dateof such veteran’s discharge or releasefrom active duty.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined


Agency Contact: James I. Melvin,Director, Division of Policy, Planning,and Program Development, OFCCP,Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomN3424, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0102TDD Phone: 202 693-1308Fax: 202 693-1304Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1215–AB24

2007. STOCK OPTIONS, STOCKAPPRECIATION RIGHTS, AND BONAFIDE EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASEPROGRAMS UNDER THE FAIR LABORSTANDARDS ACT


Legal Authority: 29 USC 207(e)(8); PL106-202, sec 2(e)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 546; 29 CFR 778


Abstract: The Worker EconomicOpportunity Act, Public Law 106-202(May 18, 2000), amended section 7(e)of the Fair Labor Standards Act to

clarify how certain employer-providedstock option programs are to be treatedfor purposes of overtime pay. Certainprograms meeting prescribed criteriawould not have to be factored into the‘‘regular rate’’ otherwise required whencalculating ‘‘time-and-one-half’’overtime premium pay for overtimehours of work. The legislation calls forregulations to be promulgated asnecessary, which will includeamendments to some of the existingregulations on overtime pay.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 05/00/02


Small Entities Affected: Businesses,Organizations



RIN: 1215–AB31

2008. OBLIGATION OF FEDERALCONTRACTORS ANDSUBCONTRACTORS, NOTICE OFEMPLOYEE RIGHTS CONCERNINGPAYMENT OF UNION DUES OR FEES

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.82 in part II of this issue of the FederalRegister.

RIN: 1215–AB33

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageEmployment Standards Administration (ESA)

2009. CHILD LABOR REGULATIONS,ORDERS, AND STATEMENTS OFINTERPRETATION (ESA/W-H)


RIN: 1215–AA09

2010. LABOR CONDITIONAPPLICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTSFOR EMPLOYERS USINGNONIMMIGRANTS ON H-1B VISAS INSPECIALTY OCCUPATIONS AND ASFASHION MODELS


RIN: 1215–AB09

2011. MINIMUM WAGE ANDOVERTIME VIOLATIONS—CIVILMONEY PENALTIES (29 CFR 578);CHILD LABOR VIOLATIONS—CIVILMONEY PENALTIES (29 CFR 579);ADJUSTMENT OF CIVIL MONEYPENALTIES FOR INFLATION


Legal Authority: 29 USC 216(e); PL101-410; PL 104-134




DOL—ESA Final Rule Stage

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory,October 23, 1996.

Abstract: The Debt CollectionImprovement Act of 1996 (PL 104-134)amended the Federal Civil PenaltiesInflation Adjustment Act of 1990 (PL101-410) to require Federal agencies toadjust certain civil money penalties forinflation. The Department is proposingadjustments in the civil moneypenalties that may be assessed undersection 16(e) of the Fair LaborStandards Act for (1) repeated orwillful violations of the minimum wageor overtime provisions; and (2) childlabor violations. Any increase in thepenalty amounts shall apply only toviolations which occur after theeffective date of the increase.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 01/27/99

Final Action 01/00/02


Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Annabelle T.Lockhart, Acting Administrator, Wageand Hour Division, Department ofLabor, Employment StandardsAdministration, 200 Constitution

Avenue, NW, FP Building, RoomS3502, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AB20

2012. GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS:NONDISCRIMINATION ANDAFFIRMATIVE ACTION OBLIGATIONS,EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246(ESA/OFCCP) (REVISED) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: EO 11246, asamended; 38 USC 4211; PL 94-502;; PL97-306; PL 102-484; 38 USC 4212; PL93-508, amended; PL 96-466; PL 101-237;; EO 11758; PL 98-223; PL 102-16;PL 102-127; PL 95-520; PL 105-339; 29USC 706;; 29 USC 793; EO 11758CFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-1 (Revision);41 CFR 60-250 (Revision); 41 CFR 60-741 (Revision) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The NPRM would remove theobligation to visit an establishmentduring a compliance check, which iscurrently required by Section 60-1.20(a)(3) in order to enhance efficiencyin resource allocation. OFCCP proposesalso to make the same revision inSection 60-250.60(a)(3) of theregulations implementing theaffirmative action provisions of theVietnam Era Veteran’s ReadjustmentAssistance Act (VEVRAA). Lastly,

OFCCP proposes to conform regulationsimplementing Section 503 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended,to the compliance evaluationprocedures contained in the regulationsimplementing Executive Order 11246,as amended, and the affirmative actionprovisions of VEVRAA, both of whichexpressly authorize OFCCP to useadditional investigative procedures todetermine a contractor’s compliancewith the regulations.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 10/12/00 65 FR 60815Final Rule 09/00/02


Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected:Undetermined

Agency Contact: James I. Melvin,Director, Division of Policy, Planning,and Program Development, OFCCP,Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomN3424, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0102TDD Phone: 202 693-1308Fax: 202 693-1304Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1215–AB28

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsEmployment Standards Administration (ESA)

2013. APPLICATION OF THE FAIRLABOR STANDARDS ACT TODOMESTIC SERVICE


Legal Authority: Sec 13(a)(15), FairLabor Standards Act (FLSA), asamended; Sec 13(b)(21), FLSA, asamended; 29 USC 213(a)(15); 29 USC213(b)(21) 88 Stat 62; Sec 29(b), FLSAof 1974; PL 93-259 88, Stat 76



Abstract: Section 13(a)(15) of the FairLabor Standards Act (FLSA) providesan exemption from minimum wage andovertime compensation for domesticservice employees engaged in providingcompanionship services. Section13(b)(21) of the FLSA provides an

exemption from overtime compensationfor live-in domestic service employees.DOL proposed certain technicalamendments to update the regulations,29 CFR part 552, Application of theFair Labor Standards Act to DomesticService, and to clarify the applicabilityof these exemptions to third-partyemployers (58 FR 69310). Afterreviewing the public comments, theDepartment adopted technical changesto update the regulations, including arevision necessitated by amendments totitle II of the Social Security Act underPublic Law 103-387 (Social SecurityDomestic Employment Reform Act)10/22/94, (see 60 FR 46766) andreopened the public comment periodon proposed revisions affecting third-party employers (section 552.109). Afterfurther review of the history and

background to this exemption, a newproposed rule was published for publiccomment on 1/19/2001 (66 FR 5481).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 02/28/94

Second NPRM 09/08/95 60 FR 46797Final Rule 09/08/95 60 FR 46766Third NPRM 01/19/01 66 FR 5481NPRM Comment

Period End 03/20/01

Third NPRM CommentPeriod EndExtended to07/23/2001

04/23/01 66 FR 20411

Next Action Undetermined




DOL—ESA Long-Term Actions

Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Federal Agency Contact: Annabelle T.Lockhart, Acting Administrator, Wageand Hour Division, Department ofLabor, Employment StandardsAdministration, 200 ConstitutionAvenue, NW, FP Building, RoomS3502, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AA82

2014. CLAIMS FOR COMPENSATIONUNDER THE ENERGY EMPLOYEESOCCUPATIONAL ILLNESSCOMPENSATION PROGRAM ACT Priority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801. Legal Authority: PL 106-398; EO 13179CFR Citation: 20 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, May31, 2001, Interim Final Rule. By executive order, regulations foradministration of program to bepromulgated by 5/31/2001.

Abstract: The Department of Labor hasissued regulations for its administrationof the provisions of the EnergyEmployees Occupational IllnessCompensation Program Act. Theseregulations address all questions arisingunder this act which have not beenspecifically assigned to the Secretary ofHealth and Human Services, to theSecretary of Energy, or to the AttorneyGeneral.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 05/25/01 66 FR 28948Interim Final Rule

Effective 07/24/01

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final RuleComment PeriodEnd

09/24/01 66 FR 47382

Final Action To Be Determined




Agency Contact: Peter M. Turcic,Director, Division of Energy EmployeesOccupational Illness Compensation,OWCP, Department of Labor,Employment Standards Administration,200 Constitution Avenue, NW, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0081Fax: 202 693-1465Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1215–AB32

Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsEmployment Standards Administration (ESA)

2015. RECORDS TO BE KEPT BYEMPLOYERS UNDER THE FAIRLABOR STANDARDS ACT Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 29 USC 211; 29 USC201 et seq; 29 USC 207(g); 52 Stat 1066,sec 11; 52 Stat 1060, sec 11; 103 Stat944, sec 7CFR Citation: 29 CFR 516 et seq Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This regulation givesguidance to employers on theinformation they must keep in recordsdeemed essential for determiningcompliance with the monetaryrequirements of the Fair LaborStandards Act (FLSA) regarding

payment of minimum wages andovertime compensation to covered andnonexempt employees, or fordetermining that certain statutoryexemptions to FLSA’s requirements forpayment of the minimum wage orovertime (or both) may apply. Thisregulatory initiative contemplatessimplification of regulatory languageand streamlining of regulatoryrequirements to ensure that applicablestandards are easily understandable andreasonable.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn Due toCompeting Priorities

09/24/01




RIN: 1215–AB03

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageEmployment and Training Administration (ETA)

2016. LABOR CERTIFICATIONPROCESS FOR THE PERMANENTEMPLOYMENT OF ALIENS IN THEUNITED STATES


RIN: 1205–AA66

2017. FEDERAL-STATEUNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATIONPROGRAM; UNEMPLOYMENTINSURANCE PERFORMANCE SYSTEM


Legal Authority: 42 USC 501 to 504;42 USC 1302(a); 26 USC 3301 to 3311;5 USC 8501 to 8508; 5 USC 8521 to8525; 42 USC 5177 to 5189a; 19 USC2271 to 2322; 40 FR 18515

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 602; 20 CFR 640;20 CFR 650; 20 CFR 609.6(f); 20 CFR614.6(f); 20 CFR 614.7(c); 20 CFR609.7(c); 20 CFR 617.51(b)


Abstract: This regulation will formallyestablish a comprehensive system forhelping ensure continuousimprovement in UI operationalperformance. It will enunciate as the



DOL—ETA Proposed Rule Stage

system’s building blocks principles forFederal and State cooperation, keynationwide performance measures,criteria distinguishing satisfactory fromunsatisfactory performance, an annualplanning process, and actions whichthe Department may take when a Statefails to perform satisfactorily.

The UI PERFORMS Regulation isconsistent with the Administration’sand the Secretary’s emphasis onimproved grants management. It isneeded now to help complete thedevelopment and implementation ofthe UI PERFORMS system and willreplace other regulations, two of whichestablish Secretary’s Standards for firstpayment and lower appeals timeliness.Until those regulations have beenreplaced the related UI PERFORMS

measures and criteria cannot be put inplace. It will also establish a definitiveframework for enforcing, if necessary,the elements and performancestandards established as parts of the UIPERFORMS system. Until theregulation is in place, UI PERFORMSwill remain incomplete.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 01/16/97 62 FR 2543ANPRM Comment

Period End 03/17/97

NPRM 08/00/02



Government Levels Affected: State

Federalism: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Burman Skrable,Operations Research Analyst, Divisionof Performance Management, OWS,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, Room S4231,200 Constitution Avenue NW, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3197Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB10

2018. SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICEEMPLOYMENT PROGRAM


RIN: 1205–AB28

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageEmployment and Training Administration (ETA)

2019. INDIAN AND NATIVE AMERICANWELFARE-TO-WORK PROGRAM


Legal Authority: 42 USC612(a)(3)(c)(iii); PL 106-113, Division B,section 1000(a)(4)


Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory,November 4, 1997, 90 days fromenactment. Citation mandates Secretaryto prescribe regulations within 90 daysof enactment, to publish interim finalrule by 10/31/98. Other, Statutory, January 1, 2000, for1999 amendments.

Abstract: These are programregulations needed to implement theIndian and Native American set-asideunder the Welfare-to-Work programauthorized by section 412(a)(3) of theSocial Security Act. New interim finalregulations are being issued toimplement changes made by theWelfare-to-Work and Child SupportAmendments of 1999 and otherlegislation. The ConsolidatedAppropriations Act of 2001 authorizedthe Department to extend welfare-to-work grants an additional two years.Therefore, the grants may operate untilSeptember 2004.

The Department received 14 commentsand none would substantively changethe regulations. The Department willprovide guidance in response to those

comments. The Interim Final Rule isthe final.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective 04/01/98


06/01/98



Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Additional Information: Congress haschanged eligibility criteria. A final rulewill be published to conform with theState programs.

Agency Contact: Gregory Gross,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, Room N4641,200 Constitution Avenue NW, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3752Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB16

2020. LABOR CERTIFICATION ANDPETITION PROCESS FOR THETEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OFNONIMMIGRANT ALIENS INAGRICULTURE IN THE UNITEDSTATES; MODIFICATION OF FEESTRUCTURE


Legal Authority: 8 USC1101(a)(15)(h)(ii)(a); 8 USC 1184; 8 USC1188; 29 USC 49 et seq



Abstract: The Employment andTraining Administration (ETA) of theDepartment of Labor (Department orDOL) proposes to amend its regulationsrelating to the temporary employmentof nonimmigrant agricultural workers(H-2A workers) in the United States.The proposed amendments wouldrequire employers to submit fees forlabor certification and the associated H-2A petitions with consolidatedapplication form at the time of filing.The proposal also would modify the feestructure for labor certification. If theapplication is denied, both fees will berefunded to the employer. It isconceivable in rare instances that thestatutory and regulatory standards forissuance of the certification will bemet, but those applicable to the petitionwill not be met. In such occurrence,neither fee will be refunded becausethe certification fee is an issuance,



DOL—ETA Final Rule Stage

while the petition fee is a processing fee.The Department published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) at 65 FR 43545 (July 13, 2000). Because of the continuing interest in the proposal, the Department published at 65 FR 50170 (August 17, 2000) a proposed rule reopening and extending the comment period on the July 13, 2000, NPRM. The comments received as a result of this reopening and extension of the comment period did not provide sufficient information to permit the Department to draft a final rule concerning a number of issues raised by commenters. Consequently, the Department intends to publish a proposed rule to again reopen and extend the comment period on the July 13, 2000, NPRM.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period Reopened and Extended

09/18/00 65 FR 50170

NPRM Comment Period Reopened and Extended to 10/29/2001

09/27/01 66 FR 49328


Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dale Ziegler, Chief, Division of Foreign Labor Certification, Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW., Room C4318, FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2942Fax: 202 693-2760Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB24

2021. ∑ LABOR CONDITION APPLICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR EMPLOYERS USING NONIMMIGRANTS ON H-1B VISAS; IMPLEMENTATION OF ELECTRONIC FILING Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 8 USC 1101(a)(15)(h)(i)(b); 8 USC 1182(n); 8 USC 1184(c)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 655, subparts H and I


Abstract: The Department of Labor is amending its regulations governing the filing and processing of labor condition applications for the employment of nonimmigrant aliens on H-1B visas in specialty occupations and as fashion models. The amendments will allow employers the option of submitting LCAs electronically, utilizing Web-based forms and instructions. The electronic filing system will be convenient and less burdensome for employers, since, unlike a system based on filing applications by facsimile transmission or by mail, the new system will allow the filing of an applications without the submission of a ‘‘hard copy.’’ Submission by mail or fax will continue to be permitted for employers who prefer one of those formats.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No



Agency Contact: Dale Ziegler, Chief, Division of Foreign Labor Certification, Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW., Room C4318, FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2942Fax: 202 693-2760Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB29

2022. ∑ LABOR CERTIFICATION AND PETITION PROCESS FOR THE TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OF NONIMMIGRANT ALIENS IN AGRICULTURE IN THE U.S.: DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO ADJUDICATION PETITIONS; DEFERRAL OF EFFECTIVE DATE

Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 8 USC 1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a);; 8 USC 1184; 8 USC 1188; 29 USC 49 et seq; 8 CFR 103.1(f)(iii)(j); 8 CFR 103.1(f)(iii)(w); 8 CFR 214.2(h)(5); 8 CFR 214.2(h)(11); 8 CFR 214.2(h)(12)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 655, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Department of Labor (DOL or Department) published a final rule in this rulemaking in the Federal Register at 65 FR 43538 (July 13, 2000), with an effective date of November 13, 2000, implementing a delegation of authority from the INS to the Department of adjudicate petitions for the temporary employment of nonimmigrant aliens in agriculture in the United States. Concurrently, the INS published a final rule at 65 FR 43528 (July 13, 2000) with an effective date of November 13, 2000, transferring to the Secretary of Labor the authority to adjudicate petitions for temporary agricultural workers and the authority to decide appeals on these decisions and to make determinations for revocation of petition approvals.Subsequently, the INS at 65 FR 67616 (November 13, 2000) published a final rule and DOL at 65 FR 67628 (November 13, 2000) published an interim final rule (IFR) deferring the effective dates of their final rules. The Department in its IFR invited comments on the deferral of the effective date. No comments were received by DOL on the deferral of the effective date.The Department also reopened and extended the comment period at 65 FR 50170 (August 17, 2000) on a companion notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) published at 65 FR 43545 (July 13, 2000) setting forth implementation measures necessary to the successful implementation of the delegation of authority to adjudicate petitions. The comments received as a result of this reopening and extension of the comment period did not provide sufficient information to permit the Department to draft a final rule concerning a number of issues raised by commenters. Consequently, the Department intends to publish a proposed rule to again reopen and extend the comment period on the July 13, 2000, NPRM.Finalizing the proposed rule is essential to the effective implementation of any delegation of authority to DOL to adjudicate petitions for temporary employment of nonimmigrant aliens in the United States. Therefore, the Department has determined to defer the effective date of the July 13, 2000, final rule for 1 year, which should be sufficient time to complete the rulemaking on the companion NPRM.

VerDate Nov<27>2001 14:20 Nov 27, 2001 Jkt 197001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 1254 Sfmt 1254 D:\UNIFIED\UAPRESS\UA011012.OUT apps27 PsN: UA011012


DOL—ETA Final Rule Stage

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Comment PeriodEnd

10/29/01

Interim Final RuleEffective

09/27/02




Agency Contact: Dale Ziegler, Chief,Division of Foreign Labor Certification,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW., RoomC4318, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2942Fax: 202 693-2760Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB30

2023. ∑ DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENTASSISTANCE PROGRAMAMENDMENT


Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302; 42 USC5177; EO 12673

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 625.5


Abstract: In 1995, ETA published aninterim final rule that clarified andremoved undue restrictions in theexisting regulations implementing theDisaster Unemployment AssistanceProgram. This rule revised all of part625. Its withdrawal from the currentagenda reflects a postponement ofadditional rulemaking due to higheragency priorities. (See RIN 1205-AB02.)This new rule on the DisasterUnemployment Assistance Programwill only address one aspect of part625; it adds a definition of‘‘unemployment is a direct result of themajor disaster.’’ ETA had not definedthis term in its previous rule. Thepurpose of the new definition is to

clarify eligibility for disasterunemployment assistance in the wakeof the major disasters as a result of theterrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective 11/13/01


12/13/01


Government Levels Affected: State,Federal

Agency Contact: Betty E. Castillo,Chief, Division of UnemploymentInsurance Operations, Department ofLabor, Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room S4231, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3032

RIN: 1205–AB31

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsEmployment and Training Administration (ETA)

2024. FEDERAL-STATEUNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION(UC) PROGRAM; CONFIDENTIALITYAND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATIONIN STATE UC RECORDS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302 (a); 42USC 503; 42 USC 1320b-7; 26 USC ch23; Secretary’s Orders 4-75 and 14-75CFR Citation: 20 CFR 603Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Employment andTraining Administration of theDepartment of Labor is preparing toissue an interim final rule onconfidentiality and disclosure ofinformation in State records collected,created, or maintained for purposes ofthe Federal-State UC program. Theinterim final rule modifies and expandsthe regulations implementing theIncome and Eligibility VerificationSystem (IEVS) to include the statutoryrequirements in title III of the SocialSecurity Act, the FederalUnemployment Tax Act, and theWagner-Peyser Act concerningconfidentiality and disclosure ofinformation in State UC records. The

use of unemployment compensationwage records under these and otherstatutes has increased in recent yearswhile privacy and confidentiality issueshave not yet been addressed.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule To Be Determined




Additional Information: Formerly RIN1205-AA74; was taken off regulatoryagenda in 1994 due to inactivity. AnNPRM was published 3/23/92 at 57 FR10063 with comment period ending5/22/92.

Agency Contact: Gerard Hildebrand,Chief, Division of Legislation,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, Room S4231,200 Constitution Avenue NW, FBBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3038Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB18

2025. ATTESTATIONS BY FACILITIESTEMPORARILY EMPLOYING H-1CNONIMMIGRANT ALIENS ASREGISTERED NURSES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 8 USC1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(c); 8 USC 1182(m); 8USC 1184; 29 USC 49 et seq; PL 106-95, 113 Stat. 1312CFR Citation: 20 CFR 655, subparts Land M Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory,February 11, 2000. Final or Interim Final regulationsrequired within 90 days of enactment. Abstract: The Nursing Relief forDisadvantaged Areas Act of 1999 (P.L.106-95; November 12, 1999) amendedthe Immigration and Nationality Act tocreate a new temporary visa programfor nonimmigrant aliens to work asregistered nurses for up to three yearsin facilities serving health professionalshortage areas, subject to certainconditions.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 08/22/00 65 FR 51137



DOL—ETA Long-Term Actions

Action Date FR Cite


09/21/00


09/21/00

Final Action To Be Determined

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Federal Agency Contact: Michael Ginley,Director, Office of Enforcement Policy,

Wage and Hour Division, Departmentof Labor, Employment StandardsAdministration, Room N3510, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0745

RIN: 1205–AB27

Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsEmployment and Training Administration (ETA)

2026. SERVICES TO MIGRANT ANDSEASONAL FARMWORKERS, JOBSERVICE COMPLAINT SYSTEM,MONITORING, AND ENFORCEMENT


Legal Authority: 29 USC 49k

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 653; 20 CFR 658;20 CFR 651


Abstract: ETA is reviewing services tomigrant and seasonal farmworkersunder the Wagner-Peyser Act as a resultof amendments to Wagner-Peyser undertitle VI of the Job Training PartnershipAct, and title III of the WorkforceInvestment Act of 1998.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01




Agency Contact: Gay Gilbert, Chief,Division of Employment Service andALMIS, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room S4231, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3428Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AA37

2027. DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENTASSISTANCE PROGRAM,AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS


Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302; 42 USC5177; EO 12673



Abstract: This rulemaking to revisecurrent regulations into a ‘‘PlainEnglish’’ format is being postponed dueto higher agency priorities.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 02/06/95

Interim Final Rule 05/11/95 60 FR 25560Withdrawn 09/24/01



Agency Contact: Betty E. Castillo,Chief, Division of UnemploymentInsurance Operations, Department ofLabor, Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room S4231, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3032

RIN: 1205–AB02

2028. TRADE ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE FOR WORKERS—IMPLEMENTATION OF 1988AMENDMENTS Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 2320



Abstract: The final rule implementingthe 1988 amendments to the TAAprogram was published in the FederalRegister on January 6, 1994. Althoughit was published as final, commentswere requested on several materialchanges being made in the final rulewhich differ from the November 1988proposed rule and on a number of otherchanges which were not included inthe proposed rule. Comments havebeen received and another final rulewill be published relating to thesesubstantive changes.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Government Levels Affected: State,Federal Additional Information: Thisrulemaking is withdrawn from theregulatory agenda. After furtheranalysis, agency resources are nowfocused on the Administration’s tradeadjustment assistance initiative, whichcould change the focus of theseregulatory items. Agency Contact: Edward A. Tomchick,Director, Division of Trade AdjustmentAssistance, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room C5311, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3577RIN: 1205–AB05

2029. TRADE ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE FOR WORKERS—TRANSITIONAL ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE NAFTA-TAA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 19 USC 2320; 19 USC2331CFR Citation: 20 CFR 617Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Title V of the NorthAmerican Free Trade AgreementImplementation Act (NAFTA) (PL 103-182) amends chapter 2 of title II of theTrade Act of 1974 by adding a newNAFTA Transitional AdjustmentAssistance Program (NAFTA-TAA) forworkers who lose their jobs because ofincreased imports from or a shift ofproduction to Mexico and Canada.Most of the provisions of title V arein the form of amendments to chapter



DOL—ETA Completed Actions

2, title II, of the Trade Act. While someof the provisions are not in the formof amendments to the Trade Act theynonetheless must be given effect inimplementing the NAFTA-TAAprogram. A proposed rule to amend theregulations on the trade adjustmentassistance program for workers waspublished in the Federal Register onJanuary 17, 1995.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 03/20/95

Withdrawn 08/31/01



Additional Information: Thisrulemaking is withdrawn from theregulatory agenda. After furtheranalysis, agency resources are nowfocused on the Administration’s tradeadjustment assistance initiative, whichcould change the focus of theseregulatory items.

Agency Contact: Edward A. Tomchick,Director, Division of Trade AdjustmentAssistance, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room C5311, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3577

RIN: 1205–AB07

2030. ESTABLISHMENT OF FEES FORIMMIGRATION PROGRAMSADMINISTERED BY THEEMPLOYMENT AND TRAININGADMINISTRATION


Legal Authority: Not yet determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined


Abstract: Assuming Congress providesthe required authorization, theregulation would establish a new feecharged to employers for processing ofalien labor certification applications.The user fee would be a governmentreceipt and would be applied toFederal and State expenditures forFederal and State programadministration in the StateUnemployment Insurance andEmployment Service account and the

Program Operations Account in DOL’sEmployment and TrainingAdministration (ETA).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/21/01


Government Levels Affected: State,Local

Additional Information: The basefunding of ETA immigration programshas been reduced by 30 percent sinceFY 1995. The fee proceeds would beused to offset the costs of administeringthe alien labor certification program atthe State and Regional levels. ETA hasworked with the States and RegionalOffices and reduced the number ofqueued cases from 92,000 to 66,000 atthe State level. The number of caseson the Regional level is 21,000.However, there was a one timereinstatement of section 245(i) as partof the LIFE legislation and thisincreased the queued permanent casesby 235,000 applications over the 60,000permanent applications received in FY2001. The regular appropriation, plusthe user fees, will be necessary to workoff the cases in the pipeline andbecome current.


RIN: 1205–AB14

2031. WELFARE-TO-WORK (WTW)GRANTS


Legal Authority: 42 USC603(a)(5)(c)(ix); PL 106-113, Division B,sec 1000(a)(4)



Abstract: The Employment andTraining Administration publishedinterim final regulations on November18, 1997, implementing the Welfare-to-Work Grants Program. The PersonalResponsibility and Work OpportunityReconciliation Act reformed the

Nation’s welfare laws, when enacted inAugust 1996, by creating a new systemof block grants to the States forTemporary Assistance for NeedyFamilies (TANF). Moving people fromwelfare to work is one of the primarygoals of Federal welfare policy. Section5001 of the Balanced Budget Act of1997 authorized the Department ofLabor to provide Welfare-to-WorkGrants to States and local communitiesto create additional job opportunitiesfor the hardest-to-employ recipients ofTANF and certain noncustodialparents. The Welfare-to-Work Grantswere provided to the States through theuse of a formula, and in a competitiveprocess to local communities. A smallamount of total grant funds were setaside for special purposes: one percentfor Indian tribes; and 0.8 percent forevaluation.

Guidance and regulations reflectminimal amplification of the law andprovide further information orclarification as needed to make theprogram operational. Existingregulations and systems are usedwherever possible. Reportingrequirements will assure programintegrity and provide timelyinformation for tracking performance.Leveraging of non-Federal resources atthe State and local level is encouraged.

These funds have allowed States andlocal communities to help moveeligible individuals into jobs by: jobcreation through public or privatesector wage subsidies; on-the-jobtraining; short-term vocationaleducational training and job training;contracts with public or privateproviders of job readiness, jobplacement, and post-employmentservices; job vouchers for similarservices; community service or workexperience; or job retention andsupportive services (if such services arenot otherwise available).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 11/18/97 62 FR 61587Interim Final Rule 01/11/01 66 FR 2690Final Rule 01/11/01 66 FR 2689Interim Final Rule

Comment PeriodExtended to 4/11/01

02/12/01 66 FR 9763

Effective Date of FinalRule Delayed Until4/13/01

02/12/01 66 FR 9763

Final Rule Effective 02/12/01



DOL—ETA Completed Actions

Action Date FR Cite


03/12/01

Combined with 1205-AB16

09/25/01


Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Tribal

Additional Information: As a result ofthe interim final rule published onJanuary 11, 2001, the Departmentreceived comments from 14 entitiesresulting in about 60 discrete commentson the rule implementing the 1999Amendments. After considering severaloptions, ETA proposes to respond at afuture point in time on the Indian andNative American Welfare-to-WorkInterim Final Rule (RIN 1205-AB16).This rule would apply to the systemthrough September 2004.

Agency Contact: Dennis Lieberman,Director, Division of Welfare to Work,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW, N4671, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-3375

RIN: 1205–AB15

2032. LABOR CERTIFICATIONPROCESS FOR THE PERMANENTEMPLOYMENT OF ALIENS IN THEUNITED STATES; REFILING OFAPPLICATIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 8 USC 1182(a)(5)(A) CFR Citation: 20 CFR 656Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking wouldamend the regulations relating to thepermanent employment of aliens in theUnited States. The proposedamendments would permit employersto request that any labor certificationapplication for permanent employmentfiled prior to a certain date and whichhas not been sent to the regionalcertifying officer to be processed as areduction in recruitment request,provided recruitment has not beenconducted pursuant to the permanentlabor certification regulations. ETAanticipates that proposed amendmentwould reduce the backlog of laborcertification application for permanentemployment in State EmploymentSecurity Agencies.This measure to reduce backlogs wouldresult in a variety of desirable benefits,including a reduction in governmentresources necessary to processapplications for alien employment

certification a reduction in processingtime for both new application andthose applications currently in thequeue, and would facilitate thedevelopment and implementation of anew, more efficient system forprocessing labor certificationapplications for permanent employmentin the United States.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 08/25/00

Final Action 08/03/01 66 FR 40584Final Action Effective 09/04/01





RIN: 1205–AB25

Department of Labor (DOL) Prerule StagePension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA)

2033. BONDING RULES UNDER THEEMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOMESECURITY ACT OF 1974 (SECTION610 REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.

Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1112



Abstract: PWBA is conducting a reviewof the temporary bonding rules undersection 412 of ERISA (29 CFR part2580) in accordance with therequirements of section 610 of theRegulatory Flexibility Act. The reviewwill cover the continued need for therules; the nature of complaints orcomments received from the publicconcerning the rules; the complexity ofthe rules; the extent to which the rulesoverlap, duplicate or conflict with other

Federal rules and, to the extent feasible,with State and local rules; and thedegree to which technology, economicconditions, or other factors havechanged in industries affected by therules.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 12/01/00End Review 12/00/01




Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210

Phone: 202 693-8500RIN: 1210–AA82

2034. REQUESTS FORENFORCEMENT PURSUANT TOSECTION 502(B)(2) (SECTION 610REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1132(b)(2) CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2560.502-1Legal Deadline: None Abstract: PWBA is conducting a reviewof its regulation (29 CFR 2560.502-1)relating to requests for enforcementpursuant to section 502(b)(1) of ERISA(formerly ERISA) section 502(b)(2)) ofERISA in accordance with therequirements of section 610 of the



DOL—PWBA Prerule Stage

Regulatory Flexibility Act. The reviewwill cover the continued need for therules; the nature of complaints orcomments received from the publicconcerning the rules; the complexity ofthe rule; the extent to which the rulesoverlap, duplicate or conflict with otherFederal rules and, to the extent feasible,with State and local rules; and thedegree to which technology, economicconditions, or other factors havechanged in industries affected by therules.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite





Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA83

2035. CIVIL PENALTIES UNDER ERISASECTION 502(C)(2) (SECTION 610REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1132(c)(2)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2560.502(c)(2)


Abstract: PWBA is conducting a reviewof its regulations on civil penaltiesunder section 502(c)(2) of ERISA (29CFR 2560.502(c)(2) in accordance withthe requirements of section 610 of theRegulatory Flexibility Act. The reviewwill cover the continued need for therules; the nature of complaints orcomments received from the publicconcerning the rules; the complexity ofthe rules; the extent to which the rulesoverlap, duplicate or conflict with otherFederal rules and, to the extent feasible,with State and local rules; and thedegree to which technology, economicconditions, or other factors havechanged in industries affected by therules.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Government Levels Affected: None Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500RIN: 1210–AA84

2036. PROCEDURES FOR THEASSESSMENT OF CIVIL PENALTIESUNDER ERISA SECTION 502(C)(2)(SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1132(c)(2)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2570.60 et seq.


Abstract: PWBA is conducting a reviewof its regulations relating to theprocedures for the assessment of civilpenalties under section 502(c)(2) ofERISA (29 CFR 2570.60 et seq.) inaccordance with the requirements ofsection 610 of the Regulatory FlexibilityAct. The review will cover thecontinued need for the rules; the natureof complaints or comments receivedfrom the public concerning the rules;the complexity of the rules; the extentto which the rules overlap, duplicateor conflict with other Federal rules and,to the extent feasible, with State andlocal rules; and the degree to whichtechnology, economic conditions, orother factors have changed in industriesaffected by the rules.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite





Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA85

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StagePension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA)

2037. RULEMAKING RELATING TONOTICE REQUIREMENTS FORCONTINUATION OF HEALTH CARECOVERAGE


RIN: 1210–AA60

2038. REGULATION EXEMPTINGCERTAIN BROKER-DEALERS ANDINVESTMENT ADVISERS FROMBONDING REQUIREMENTS






Abstract: This proposed regulationwould provide an exemption from thebonding requirements of Section 412(a)of ERISA for certain broker-dealers andinvestment advisers who handle planassets.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 02/00/02



DOL—PWBA Proposed Rule Stage



Agency Contact: Stacey L. DeWalt,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA80

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StagePension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA)

2039. DEFINITION OF COLLECTIVEBARGAINING AGREEMENT (ERISASECTION 3(40)) Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 29 USC 1002(40)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2510.3-40


Abstract: The regulation will establishstandards for determining whether anemployee benefit plan is established ormaintained under or pursuant to oneor more collective bargainingagreements for purposes of itsexclusion from the Multiple EmployerWelfare Arrangement (MEWA)definition in section 3(40) of ERISA,and thus exempted from Stateregulation. The regulation will clarifythe scope of the exception from theMEWA definition for plans establishedor maintained under or pursuant to oneor more collective bargainingagreements by providing criteria whichwill serve to distinguish welfare benefitarrangements which are maintained bylegitimate unions pursuant to bona fidecollective bargaining agreements frominsurance arrangements promoted andmarketed under the guise of ERISA-covered plans exempt from Stateinsurance regulation. The regulationwill also serve to limit the extent towhich plans maintained pursuant tobona fide collective bargainingagreements may extend plan coverageto individuals not covered by suchagreements.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period Extended to11/16/95

09/29/95 60 FR 50508

Notice EstablishingNegotiatedRulemakingAdvisory Committee

09/22/98 63 FR 50542

Second NPRM 10/27/00 65 FR 64498Second NPRM

Comment PeriodEnd

12/26/00


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Yes

Small Entities Affected: GovernmentalJurisdictions, Organizations


Federalism: This action may havefederalism implications as defined inEO 13132.

Agency Contact: Elizabeth A.Goodman, Pension Law Specialist,Office of Regulations andInterpretations, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA48

2040. REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTINGTHE HEALTH CARE ACCESS,PORTABILITY AND RENEWABILITYPROVISIONS OF THE HEALTHINSURANCE PORTABILITY ANDACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1996



Legal Authority: PL 104-91, sec 101;29 USC 1027; 29 USC 1059; 29 USC1135; 29 USC 1171; 29 USC 1172; 29USC 1177


Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, April1, 1997, Interim Final Rule. Per section 734 of ERISA as added bysection 101 of HIPAA.

Abstract: The Health InsurancePortability and Accountability Act of1996 (HIPAA) amended title I of ERISAby adding a new part 7, designed toimprove health care access, portabilityand renewability. This rulemaking willprovide regulatory guidance toimplement these provisions.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 04/08/97 62 FR 16894

Action Date FR Cite


06/07/97


07/07/97

Request forInformation

10/25/99 64 FR 57520

Comment Period End 01/25/00Final Rule 01/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Amy Turner, Director,Office of Health Plan Standards,Department of Labor, Pension andWelfare Benefits Administration, RoomN5677, 200 Constitution Avenue NW.,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8335RIN: 1210–AA54

2041. HEALTH CARE STANDARDSFOR MOTHERS AND NEWBORNS Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1027, ERISAsec 107; 29 USC 1059, ERISA sec 209;29 USC 1135, ERISA sec 505; 29 USC1171 to 1173, ERISA sec 701 to 703;29 USC 1181, ERISA sec 711; 29 USC1182, ERISA sec 712; 29 USC 1191 to1194, ERISA sec 731 to 734; PL 104-191, 101 Stat 1936 (HIPAA); PL 104-204, 110 Stat 2935 (NMHPA); Secretaryof Labor’s Order No. 1-87, 52 FR 13139,April 21, 1987



Abstract: The Newborns’ and Mothers’Health Protection Act of 1996(NMHPA) was enacted on September26, 1996 (PL 104-204). NMHPAamended the Public Health Service Act(PHSA) and the Employee RetirementIncome Security Act of 1974, asamended, (ERISA) to provide protectionfor mothers and their newborn childrenwith regard to the length of hospital



DOL—PWBA Final Rule Stage

stays following the birth of a child.NMHPA provisions are set forth in titleXXVII of the PHSA and part 7 ofsubtitle B of title I of ERISA. Thisrulemaking will provide furtherguidance with regard to the provisionsof the NMHPA.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 10/27/98 63 FR 57546Final Action 09/00/02



Additional Information: LEGALAUTHORITY CONT: Secs. 107, 209,505, 701-703, 711, 712 731-734 ofERISA (29 U.S.C. 1027, 1059, 1135,1171-1173, 1181 1182, 1191-1194), asamended by HIPAA (Pub. L. 104-191,101 Stat. 1936) and NMHPA (Pub. L.104-204) and Secretary of Labor’s OrderNo. 1-87, 52 FR 13139, April 21, 1987.

Agency Contact: Amy Turner, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room C5331, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8335

RIN: 1210–AA63

2042. REPORTING REQUIREMENTSFOR MEWAS PROVIDING MEDICALCARE BENEFITS


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1021(g)(h) (PL 104-191; 110 Stat 1952);29 USC 1194



Abstract: These interim final rulesgovern certain reporting requirementsunder title I of the EmployeeRetirement Income Security Act of1974, as amended (ERISA) for multipleemployer welfare arrangements(MEWAs) that provide benefitsconsisting of medical care. In part, therules implement recent changes madeto ERISA by the Health InsurancePortability and Accountability Act of1996 (HIPAA). The rules also set forthelements that MEWAs would berequired to file with the Department ofLabor for the purpose of determiningcompliance with the portabilitynondiscrimination, renewability andother requirements of part 7 of subtitle

B of title I of ERISA including therequirements of the Mental HealthParity Act of 1996 and the Newborns’and Mothers’ Protection Act of 1996.The rules provide guidance withrespect to section 502(c)(5) of ERISAwhich authorizes the Secretary of Laborto assess a civil penalty of up to $1,000a day for failure to comply with thenew reporting requirements.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 02/11/00 65 FR 7152Final Action 06/00/02




RIN: 1210–AA64

2043. ELIMINATION OF FILINGREQUIREMENTS FOR SUMMARYPLAN DESCRIPTIONS


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1024; 29 USC1135; PL 105-34, sec 1503

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.104a-2; 29CFR 2520.104a-3; 29 CFR 2520.104a-4;29 CFR 2520.104a-7


Abstract: This rulemaking will removefrom the CFR certain regulations thathave been superseded by amendmentsto title I of ERISA effected by theTaxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (PL 105-34) that eliminate the requirement forplan administrators to file summaryplan descriptions (SPDs), summaries ofmaterial modifications (SMMs), andupdated SPDs with the Department ofLabor. Under the amendments planadministrators must continue to furnishparticipants and beneficiaries withcopies of these documents. Separaterulemakings (RINs 1210-AA67 and1210-AA68) will implement theTaxpayer Relief Act amendments thatrequire plan administrators to furnishcopies of SPDs and any otherdocuments relating to the plan to theDepartment on request, and authorizethe Secretary of Labor to assess a civilpenalty for failure to do so.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 10/04/99




Agency Contact: Lisa M. Fields,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5625, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA66

2044. REQUIREMENT TO FURNISHPLAN DOCUMENTS UPON REQUESTBY THE SECRETARY OF LABOR


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1024; 29 USC1135; PL 105-34, sec 1503

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.104a-8


Abstract: This rulemaking willimplement an amendment to title I ofERISA made by section 1503 of theTaxpayer Relief Act of 1997 (PL 105-34) which requires plan administratorsto furnish copies of any documentsrelating to the plan to the Departmenton request.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 10/04/99






RIN: 1210–AA67




2045. CIVIL PENALTY FOR FAILURETO FURNISH CERTAIN PLANDOCUMENTS


Legal Authority: PL 105-34, sec 1503;29 USC 1135; 29 USC 1132

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2560; 29 CFR2570


Abstract: This rulemaking willimplement the enforcement aspects ofamendments to title I of ERISA madeby section 1503 of the Taxpayer ReliefAct of 1997 (Public Law 105-34) which,while eliminating the requirement thatplan administrators file summary plandescriptions (SPDs), summaries ofmaterial modifications (SMMs) andupdated SPDs with the Department ofLabor, also provided that administratorsmust furnish copies of any documentsrelating to the plan, including but notlimited to SPDs, to the Department onrequest. In particular, this rulemakingwill implement the amendments thatauthorize the Secretary of Labor toassess a civil penalty of up to $100 aday, up to a maximum of $1,000 perrequest, against a plan administratorwho fails to furnish the requesteddocuments on a timely basis.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 10/04/99






RIN: 1210–AA68

2046. ELECTRONIC DISCLOSURE OFEMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANINFORMATION


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1024; 29 USC1135; PL 105-34, Taxpayer Relief Act;

Secretary of Labor’s Order No. 1-87,April 21,1987

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.104b

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory,December 31, 1998.

Abstract: This rulemaking will improvethe ability of sponsors andadministrators of all employee benefitplans covered by title I of ERISA tomake certain disclosures of planinformation to participants andbeneficiaries through electronic means.The rule will provide guidance withrespect to the conditions under whichelectronic disclosures will be deemedto satisfy the disclosure requirementsunder title I of ERISA. The rule alsowill establish recordkeeping standardsfor maintaining or storing data inelectronic form.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 03/29/99





Agency Contact: Eric A. Raps, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA71

2047. RULEMAKING RELATING TOTHE WOMEN’S HEALTH ANDCANCER RIGHTS ACT OF 1998


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1185; PL 105-277; 112 Stat 2681; 29 USC 1135; 29USC 1194



Abstract: The Women’s Health andCancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA)was enacted on October 21, 1998 (P.L.105-277). WHCRA amended theEmployee Retirement Income SecurityAct of 1974 (ERISA) and the PublicHealth Service Act (PHS Act) toprovide protection for patients who

elect breast reconstruction inconnection with a mastectomy. TheWHCRA provisions are set forth in part7 of subtitle B of title I of ERISA andin title XXVII of the PHS Act. Theseinterim rules will provide guidancewith respect to the WHCRA provisions.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Request forInformation (RFI)

05/28/99 64 FR 29186

RFI Comment PeriodEnd

06/28/99

Interim Final Rule 07/00/02



Agency Contact: Elena Hornsby,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room C5331, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8335

RIN: 1210–AA75

2048. VOLUNTARY FIDUCIARYCORRECTION PROGRAM (VFCPROGRAM)


RIN: 1210–AA76

2049. PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATIONAGAINST PARTICIPANTS ANDBENEFICIARIES BASED ON HEALTHSTATUS


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1027; 52 FR13139, April 21, 1987; 29 USC 1059;29 USC 1135; 29 USC 1171; 29 USC1167; 29 USC 1194; PL 104-191 sec101; 29 USC 1181, 101 Stat 1936;Secretary of Labor’s Order No. 1-37



Abstract: Section 702 of the EmployeeRetirement Income Security Act of1974, amended by the Health InsurancePortability and Accountability Act of1996 (HIPAA), establishes that a grouphealth plan or a health insurance issuermay not establish rules for eligibility(including continued eligibility) of anyindividual to enroll under the terms of




the plan based on any health status-related factor. These provisions are alsocontained in the Internal Revenue Codeunder the jurisdiction of theDepartment of the Treasury, and thePublic Health Service Act under thejurisdiction of the Department of Healthand Human Services.On April 8, 1997, the Department, inconjunction with the Departments ofthe Treasury and Health and HumanServices (collectively, the Departments)published interim final regulationsimplementing the nondiscriminationprovisions of HIPAA. These regulationscan be found at 26 CFR 54.9802-1(Treasury), 29 CFR 2590.702 (Labor),and 45 146.121 (HHS). That notice ofrulemaking also solicited comments onthe nondiscrimination provisions andindicated that the Departments intendto issue further regulations on thenondiscrimination rules. Thisrulemaking contains additionalregulatory interim guidance underHIPAA’s nondiscrimination provisions.

In addition, the rulemaking containsproposed guidance on bona fidewellness programs.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Comment PeriodEnd

07/07/97

NPRM: Wellness 01/08/01 66 FR 1421Second Interim Final

Rule 01/08/01 66 FR 1378

NPRM CommentPeriod End

04/09/01


04/09/01

Final Rule 07/00/02



Additional Information: This item hasbeen split off from RIN 1210-AA54 in

order to provide focused guidance onsection 702 of ERISA, which prohibitsdiscrimination against participants andbeneficiaries by group health plans andhealth insurance issuers based onhealth status.


RIN: 1210–AA77

2050. ∑ DELINQUENT FILERVOLUNTARY COMPLIANCEPROGRAM (DFVC PROGRAM)


RIN: 1210–AA86

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsPension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA)

2051. ADEQUATE CONSIDERATION



Legal Authority: 29 USC 1002(18); 29USC 1135



Abstract: This regulation wouldprovide guidance as to what constitutes‘‘adequate consideration’’ under section3(18) of ERISA for assets other thansecurities for which there is a generallyrecognized market.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 07/17/88




Agency Contact: Paul Mannina, StaffAttorney, Plan Benefits SecurityDivision, Department of Labor, Pensionand Welfare Benefits Administration,Room N4611, 200 Constitution Avenue

NW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-5600

RIN: 1210–AA15

2052. CIVIL PENALTIES UNDER ERISASECTION 502(1)




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2570.80(Procedural); 29 CFR 2560.502(l)-l(Substantive)


Abstract: Section 502(l) of ERISArequires the Secretary of Labor to assessa civil penalty against a fiduciary whobreaches a fiduciary duty under, orcommits a violation of, part 4 of titleI of ERISA, or any other person whoknowingly participates in such breachor violation. The Department haspublished an interim rule setting forththe procedures for the assessment ofpenalties under ERISA section 502(l)and for petitioning the Secretary toexercise his or her discretion to waiveor reduce the mandated assessment, as

well as a proposed rule that defines thefollowing pivotal terms contained insection 502(l): ‘‘applicable recoveryamount,’’ ‘‘breach of fiduciaryresponsibility or violation,’’ ‘‘settlementagreement,’’ and ‘‘court order.’’

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 06/20/90 55 FR 25284Interim Final Rule 06/20/90 55 FR 25284NPRM Comment

Period End 08/20/90




Agency Contact: Vicki Shteir-Dunn,Staff Attorney, Plan Benefits SecurityDivision, Department of Labor, Pensionand Welfare Benefits Administration,Room N4638, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-5600

RIN: 1210–AA37



DOL—PWBA Long-Term Actions

2053. MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITSPARITY



Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1182 (PL 104-204; 110 Stat 2944); 29USC 1194



Abstract: The Mental Health Parity Actof 1996 (MHPA) was enacted onSeptember 26, 1996 (P.L. 104-204).MHPA amended the Public HealthService Act (PHSA) and the EmployeeRetirement Income Security Act of 1974

(ERISA), as amended, to provide forparity in the application of limits oncertain mental health benefits withlimits on medical and surgical benefits.MHPA provisions are set forth inchapter 100 of subtitle K of the Code,title XXVII of the PHSA, and part 7of subtitle B of title I of ERISA. Thisrulemaking provides guidance withregard to the provisions of the MHPA.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 12/22/97 62 FR 66932Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: LEGALAUTHORITIES CONT: Secs. 107, 209,505, 701-703, 711, 712 731-734 ofERISA (29 U.S.C. 1027, 1059, 1135,1171-1173, 1181 1182, 1191-1194), asamended by HIPAA (Pub. L. 104-191,101 Stat. 1936) and NMHPA (Pub. L.104-204) and Secretary of Labor’s OrderNo. 1-87, 52 FR 13139, April 21, 1987.

Agency Contact: Mark Connor,Supervisory Pension Law Specialist,Department of Labor, Pension andWelfare Benefits Administration, RoomBN5669, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8335

RIN: 1210–AA62

Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsPension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA)

2054. INDIVIDUAL BENEFITSREPORTING REQUIREMENTS FORDEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS



Legal Authority: 29 USC 1025; 29 USC1059; 29 USC 1135



Abstract: ERISA sections 105 and 209require the furnishing of statements ofaccrued and vested pension benefitsupon request of a participant orbeneficiary, upon a participant’stermination of service with anemployer, and upon a participant’sincurring a one-year break in service.This regulation will provide guidancewith respect to the furnishing ofindividual benefit reports toparticipants and beneficiaries indefined contribution pension plans.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01



Additional Information: No furtheraction is contemplated by the Agencyon this item at this time.

Agency Contact: John J. Canary,Supervisory Pension Law Specialist,

Department of Labor, Pension andWelfare Benefits Administration, RoomN5669, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA65

2055. SOFT DOLLAR (INTERPRETIVEBULLETIN)


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1103; 29 USC1104; 29 USC 1106; 29 USC 1108; 29USC 1135



Abstract: This Interpretive Bulletinwill codify the guidance provided bythe Department concerning ‘‘softdollar’’ and directed commissionarrangements, for ease of reference byemployee benefit plan fiduciaries, planservice providers, and others.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01




Additional Information: No furtheraction is contemplated by the Agencyon this item at this time.

Agency Contact: David J. Lurie,Pension Law Specialist, Department of

Labor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA74

2056. ∑ DELAY OF APPLICABILITYDATE FOR CLAIMS REGULATIONUNDER ERISA


Legal Authority: ERISA Section 502;ERISA Section 505; 29 USC 1132; 29USC 1135; Secretary’s Order 1-87, 52FR 13139, April 21, 1987; Section2560.502-1; Section 2560.502i-1;Section 2560.503-1

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2560.503.1


Abstract: This action delays for at leastsix months and not more than one yearthe applicability date for the regulationgoverning minimum requirements forbenefit claims procedures of grouphealth plans covered by Title I of theEmployee Retirement Income SecurityAct. As published on November 21,2000, the benefit claims procedurewould be applicable to claims filed onor after January 1, 2002. The currentaction amends the regulation so that itwill apply to group health claims filedon or after the first day of the first planyear beginning on or after July 1, 2002,but in no event later than January 1,2003.



DOL—PWBA Completed Actions

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite




Agency Contact: Susan G. Lahne,Senior Pension Law Specialist,

Department of Labor, Pension andWelfare Benefits Administration, RoomN5669, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-8500

RIN: 1210–AA89

Department of Labor (DOL) Prerule StageMine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

2057. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOCOAL MINE DUST (LOWERINGCONCENTRATION LIMIT)





Abstract: MSHA is consideringrulemaking to lower the respirable coalmine dust concentration limit becauseminers continue to be at risk of

developing dust-induced occupationallung disease.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 09/00/02



Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety and

Health Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1219–AB08

2058. ASBESTOS EXPOSURE LIMIT


RIN: 1219–AB24

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageMine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

2059. BELT ENTRY USE AS INTAKEAIRCOURSE TO VENTILATEWORKING SECTIONS





Abstract: Currently, mine operatorsmust apply to MSHA for a modificationof the existing regulations if they wantto use belt entries for ventilationpurposes. MSHA’s current regulationsprohibit belt entries from being usedto ventilate areas where coal is beingmined. The intent was to preventsmoke from a conveyor belt fire fromtraveling to a miner’s workplace.Improved technology, includingsophisticated monitoring devices, suchas atmospheric monitoring systems(AMS), makes it possible to use beltentries safely to ventilate these areasin mines, provided certain conditionsare met. An AMS is a networkconsisting of hardware and softwarecapable of measuring atmosphericparameters, such as carbon monoxideand oxygen concentrations; transmittingthese measurements to the surface;

providing local and remote alarms;manipulating and catalogingatmospheric data; and providingreports.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/00/02


Small Entities Affected: Businesses


Additional Information: In 1985 MSHApublished a ‘‘pre-proposal’’ thatincluded a belt air provision as partof the revisions to the ventilationregulations. In 1988 MSHA publisheda proposed rule that would haveallowed belt air to ventilate the areawhere coal is being mined. Also in1988, MSHA held six hearings toreceive public comment on theproposed rule. Several thousand minersattended the hearings to voice theiropposition to the belt air provision. Asa result, in 1989 MSHA formed the BeltAir Ventilation Review Committee toreview the use of belt air. TheCommittee concluded that the use ofbelt air could be allowed, providedenvironmental sensors are used to

detect belt fires. Another hearing tookplace in 1990 to solicit furthercomment on the use of belt air. In 1991,the Secretary of Labor formed a FederalAdvisory Committee on the use of beltair. MSHA published final ventilationrules in 1992 that omitted the use ofbelt air, deferring further action untilthe Advisory Committeerecommendations were completed. InDecember 1992, the AdvisoryCommittee published a report thatconcluded that belt air can be used tosafely ventilate areas where coal isbeing mined, provided certainconditions are met.

Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety andHealth Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1219–AA76

2060. INDEPENDENT LABORATORYTESTING





DOL—MSHA Proposed Rule Stage

CFR Citation: 30 CFR 6; 30 CFR 29;30 CFR 33; 30 CFR 35; 30 CFR 18; 30CFR 19; 30 CFR 20; 30 CFR 7; 30 CFR22; 30 CFR 23; 30 CFR 27; 30 CFR 28;30 CFR 36


Abstract: This rulemaking will revisetext in the CFR to reduce burden orduplication, and streamlinerequirements. Our current regulationsset out approval requirements forMSHA testing and evaluation forapproval of certain products used ingassy underground mines. The rule asproposed would allow us to accepttesting and evaluation of certain mineequipment by independent laboratories;and approve products which satisfyalternative testing and evaluationrequirements if those requirements areequivalent to ours, or could beenhanced to be equivalent. We areconsidering reproposing the rule toassure that the proposed changes areappropriate.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period Extended to2/21/1995

02/13/95 60 FR 8209

Public Hearing Notice 10/10/95 60 FR 52640Notice to Reschedule

Public Hearing to4/30/1996

02/09/96 61 FR 15743

Comment Period End 05/31/96Second NPRM 09/00/02



Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety and

Health Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1219–AA87

2061. IMPROVING AND ELIMINATINGREGULATIONS



CFR Citation: 30 CFR 1 to 199


Abstract: This rulemaking will revisetext in the CFR to reduce burden orduplication, and streamlinerequirements. We have reviewed ourcurrent regulations and identifiedprovisions that are outdated,redundant, unnecessary or otherwiserequire change. We will be makingthese changes through notice andcomment rulemaking where necessary.We will also consider new regulationsthat reflect ‘‘best practices’’ in themining industry. We view this effort tobe evolving and ongoing and willcontinue to accept recommendationsfrom the public.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM - Phase 5MiscellaneousTechnologyImprovements(Methane Monitorson Roof-BoltingMachines)

09/00/02





RIN: 1219–AA98

2062. MINE RESCUE TEAMS





Abstract: We are assessing our currentregulations to identify areas where wemight increase flexibility and encourageunderground mine operators to providemine rescue and recovery capability attheir mines. We hope to increase thenumber of mine rescue teams availableto assist miners in life threateningemergencies.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/00/02





RIN: 1219–AB20

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageMine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

2063. HAZARD COMMUNICATION





Abstract: Today’s complex miningenvironment exposes miners to manyhazards, such as wastes being burnedas fuel supplements at cement kilns

and other chemicals brought onto mineproperty.

On October 3, 2000, MSHA publishedan interim final Hazard Communication(HazCom) rule and opened a shortadditional comment period whichclosed on November 17, 2000.

The purpose of this standard is toreduce chemically related injuries andillnesses among miners by increasing

their knowledge and awareness ofchemical hazards. It ensures thatminers have the same protections thathave been available to workers underOSHA’s jurisdiction since 1987.MSHA’s rule is consistent with OSHA’sHazCom rule to the extent appropriate.The interim final rule would havebecome effective on October 3, 2001.MSHA reopened the record and heldpublic hearings to provide an



DOL—MSHA Final Rule Stage

additional opportunity for comment onany issue relevant to the rulemaking.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 07/31/88


Period End 01/31/92 56 FR 48720

Reopen Record 03/30/99 64 FR 15144Interim Final Rule 10/03/00 65 FR 59048Interim Final Rule

Comment PeriodEnd

11/17/00

Public Hearing andExtension ofComment Period to12/19/00

12/11/00 65 FR 77292

Delay Effective Date ofInterim Final Rule;Reopening ofRecord; PublicHearings; Close ofRecord

08/28/01 66 FR 45167

Final Action 04/00/02Interim Final Rule

Effective 06/30/02





RIN: 1219–AA47

2064. ELECTRIC MOTOR-DRIVENMINE EQUIPMENT ANDACCESSORIES AND HIGH-VOLTAGELONGWALL EQUIPMENT STANDARDSFOR UNDERGROUND COAL MINES





Abstract: Our current regulationsrequire that high-voltage cables andtransformers be kept at least 150 feetfrom coal extraction areas. Theserequirements are intended to eliminatean ignition source for methane and coaldust in close proximity to the work

area. Highly productive longwallmining systems are now in widespreaduse in the mining industry. They usesafe high-voltage electrical equipmentand associated cables. Mine operators,however, currently must apply to us fora modification from the existingregulations if they want to use thishigh-voltage equipment. The proposedrule would eliminate the need for amodification to use this equipment andwould establish safety requirements forthe design, construction, installation,use, and maintenance of high-voltagelongwall equipment and associatedcables.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 08/27/92 57 FR 39036Extension of Comment

Period to11/13/1992

10/23/92 57 FR 48350

Reopen Record 10/18/95 60 FR 53891Extension of Comment

Period 11/14/95 60 FR 57203

Comment Period End 12/18/95Reopen Record 12/28/99 64 FR 72620Comment Period End 02/28/00Final Rule 09/00/02




Additional Information: The first high-voltage longwall system startedoperating in 1985. Since that time wehave issued approximately 130 systemdesign approvals for high-voltagelongwall equipment. Over the last 16years, no electrical-type fatalities orserious injuries occurred to minersbecause of high-voltage equipment usedin accordance with over 100 grantedhigh-voltage petitions for modification(petitions). Because of this newimproved high-voltage technology, thedesigned safety benefits and theobserved use experience, MSHA isrevising its existing 30 CFR part 18electric motor-driven mine equipmentand accessories approval requirementsby adding specific design requirementsfor high-voltage longwall equipment inunderground mines.

Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety andHealth Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1219–AA75

2065. VERIFICATION OFUNDERGROUND COAL MINEOPERATORS’ DUST CONTROL PLANSAND COMPLIANCE SAMPLING FORRESPIRABLE DUST


RIN: 1219–AB14

2066. DETERMINATION OFCONCENTRATION OF RESPIRABLECOAL MINE DUST


RIN: 1219–AB18

2067. ∑ DIESEL PARTICULATEEXPOSURE OF UNDERGROUNDMETAL AND NONMETAL MINERS





Abstract: This proposed rule addressestwo provisions of the Mine Safety andHealth Administration’s final rulepertaining to ‘‘Diesel Particulate MatterExposure of Underground Metal andNonmetal Miners,’’ published in theFederal Register on January 19, 2001(66 FR 5706, RIN 1219-AB11). The finalrule was scheduled to become effectiveon March 20, 2001, but MSHA delayedthe effective date of the rule until May21, 2001 in accordance with a January20, 2001 memorandum from thePresident’s Chief of Staff. On May 21,2001, MSHA delayed the effective dateof the final rule until July 5, 2001. Thefinal rule was challenged by miningindustry trade associations, severalmining companies and the UnitedSteelworkers of America. This proposedrule addresses two provisions: section57.5066(b) (regarding the taggingprovision of the maintenance standard)and section 57.5067(b) (regarding thedefinition of ‘‘introduced’’ in theengine standard). The proposal givesnotice of MSHA’s intent to revise thesetwo provisions and requests commentsfrom the mining community. TheAgency also held a public hearing to



DOL—MSHA Final Rule Stage

receive further input from the public.The requirements of the proposed rulewill work in tandum with theprovisions that were effective on July5, 2001. (66 FR 35518)

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 08/06/01

Public Hearing 08/16/01

Action Date FR Cite

Post-hearingComment PeriodEnd and Close ofRecord

08/21/01 66 FR 35521


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Thisrulemaking is related to RIN: 1219-

AB11 which was effective on July 5,2001 (66 FR 35518).


RIN: 1219–AB28

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsMine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

2068. AIR QUALITY, CHEMICALSUBSTANCES, AND RESPIRATORYPROTECTION STANDARDS Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect State, local or tribal governments. Legal Authority: 30 USC 811; 30 USC813CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57;30 CFR 58; 30 CFR 70; 30 CFR 71; 30CFR 72; 30 CFR 75; 30 CFR 90Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Our current regulations forexposure to hazardous airbornecontaminants are over 25 years old.They do not fully protect today’sminers, who are potentially exposed toan array of toxic chemicals, and otherhazards. Examples of these includelead, cyanide, arsenic benzene, asbestosand other well documented hazards.We will propose provisions of the airquality rule in phases based on ourassessment of priority needs.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 07/06/83 48 FR 31171ANPRM 11/19/85 50 FR 47702NPRM 08/29/89 54 FR 35760NPRM Comment

Period End 08/30/91 56 FR 29201





RIN: 1219–AA48

2069. REQUIREMENTS FORAPPROVAL OF FLAME-RESISTANTCONVEYOR BELTS





Abstract: Our current regulationsrequire conveyor belts used inunderground coal mines to be flame-resistant. The rule, as proposed, wouldset new procedures and requirementsfor testing and approval of these beltsto evaluate their resistance to fireignition and propagation. The proposal

would also require purchase of theimproved belts after one year.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/24/92 57 FR 61524Extension of Comment

Period to 3/26/9302/11/93 58 FR 8028

Reopen Record andNotice of PublicHearing

03/31/95 60 FR 16589

Record Closed 06/05/95 60 FR 16558Record Reopened 10/31/95 60 FR 55353Extension of Comment

Period to 2/5/199612/20/95 60 FR 65509

Record Reopened 12/28/99 64 FR 72617Next Action Undetermined





RIN: 1219–AA92

Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsMine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)

2070. CONFINED SPACES



CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57;30 CFR 70; 30 CFR 71; 30 CFR 75; 30CFR 77


Abstract: MSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda in light ofresource constraints and changingsafety and health regulatory priorities.



DOL—MSHA Completed Actions

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 05/01/92 57 FR 8102

Withdrawn 08/16/01





RIN: 1219–AA54

2071. METAL/NONMETALIMPOUNDMENTS






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1219–AA83

2072. SURFACE HAULAGE





Abstract: MSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda in light of

resource constraints and changingsafety and health regulatory priorities.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 07/30/98 63 FR 40800Withdrawn 09/24/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety andHealth Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551Email: [email protected] RIN: 1219–AA93

2073. SAFETY STANDARD REVISIONSFOR UNDERGROUND ANTHRACITEMINES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 30 USC 811CFR Citation: 30 CFR 75Legal Deadline: None Abstract: MSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda in light ofresource constraints and changingsafety and health regulatory priorities.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/16/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: David L. Meyer,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety andHealth Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551Email: [email protected] RIN: 1219–AA96

2074. ELECTRICAL GROUNDINGSTANDARDS FOR METAL ANDNONMETAL MINES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 30 USC 811CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57Legal Deadline: None Abstract: MSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda in light of

resource constraints and changingsafety and health regulatory priorities.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1219–AB01

2075. TRAINING AND RETRAINING OFMINERS


Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect State, local or tribal governmentsand the private sector.





Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 10/01/96End Review 10/01/98Withdrawn 09/24/01



Additional Information: Training andRetraining of Miners: SupervisorTraining (1219-AB16) is combined withthis rulemaking.


RIN: 1219–AB02




2076. RESPIRABLE CRYSTALLINESILICA STANDARD



CFR Citation: 30 CFR 70.101 et seq;30 CFR 90.101 et seq; 30 CFR 71.101et seq; 30 CFR 72.101 et seq



Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1219–AB12

2077. SAFETY STANDARDS FORSELF-CONTAINED SELF-RESCUEDEVICES IN COAL ANDMETAL/NONMETAL UNDERGROUNDMINES






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 07/07/99 64 FR 36632Withdrawn 09/24/01



Additional Information: Thisrulemaking replaces the metal andnonmetal rulemaking RIN 1219-AB06

(Self-Contained Self-Rescue Devices inUnderground Metal and NonmetalMines). This new rulemaking addressesSCSRs at both coal and metal andnonmetal mines.


RIN: 1219–AB19

2078. VERIFICATION OF SURFACECOAL MINE DUST CONTROL PLANS Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined




Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/16/01




RIN: 1219–AB21

2079. SURGE AND STORAGE PILES






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1219–AB22

2080. ESCAPEWAYS AND REFUGES






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01





RIN: 1219–AB23

2081. ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONHEARING PROCEDURES






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/16/01








RIN: 1219–AB26

2082. CONTINUOUS MONITORING OFRESPIRABLE COAL MINE DUST INUNDERGROUND COAL MINES


Legal Authority: 30 USC 811; 30 USC813(h)

CFR Citation: 30 CFR 70; 30 CFR 72;30 CFR 75; 30 CFR 90



Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1219–AB27

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management (OASAM)

2083. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THEBASIS OF DISABILITY IN PROGRAMSAND ACTIVITIES RECEIVING ORBENEFITING FROM FEDERALFINANCIAL ASSISTANCE


Legal Authority: 29 USC 794Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended



Abstract: Section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended,prohibits discrimination on the basis ofdisability in any program or activity

receiving Federal financial assistance.The Department last published a finalrule implementing section 504 onOctober 7, 1980. Since that time,section 504 has been amended severaltimes, generally to update terminologyand provide new definitions. TheDepartment is undertaking thisrulemaking to update 29 CFR part 32to incorporate those changes.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/00/02



Agency Contact: Annabelle T.Lockhart, Director, Civil Rights Center,Department of Labor, Office of theAssistant Secretary for Administrationand Management, Room N4123, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8927TDD Phone: 202 693-6515Fax: 202 219-5658Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1291–AA28

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management (OASAM)

2084. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THEBASIS OF AGE IN PROGRAMS ANDACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERALFINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM THEDEPARTMENT OF LABOR


Legal Authority: 42 USC 6101 et seq,Age Discrimination Act of 1975


Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory,September 10, 1979, Deadline requirespublication of the NPRM within 90days of publication and submission toHHS of final rule within 120 days ofNPRM.

Abstract: The proposed regulatoryaction is necessary to comply with theDepartment’s statutory and regulatoryobligations under the AgeDiscrimination Act of 1975, asamended (the Act). The Act and thegeneral, Governmentwide implementingrule issued by the Department of Healthand Human Services (HHS) (45 CFR 90)require each Federal agency providingfinancial assistance to any program oractivity to publish proposed regulationsimplementing the Act no later than 90days after the publication date of theGovernmentwide rule, and to submitfinal agency regulations to HHS no laterthan 120 days after publication of theNPRM. As a practical matter, while

DOL has not issued proposed or finalregulations under the AgeDiscrimination Act, it has compliedwith its enforcement obligations.Furthermore, discrimination on thebasis of age is prohibited under section188 of the Workforce Investment Actof 1998 and the implementingregulations at 29 CFR 37.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 03/01/99




DOL—OASAM Final Rule Stage




RIN: 1291–AA21

2085. IMPLEMENTATION OF THENONDISCRIMINATION AND EQUALOPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS OFTHE WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTOF 1998


Legal Authority: 29 USC 2938Workforce Investment Act

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 37Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory,August 7, 1999. Abstract: The Workforce InvestmentAct of 1998 (WIA) was signed into lawby President Clinton on August 7, 1998.Section 188 prohibits discrimination byrecipients of financial assistance underTitle I of WIA on the grounds of race,color, national origin, sex, age,disability, religion, political affiliationor belief, and for beneficiaries only,participant status, and against certainnoncitizens. Section 188(e) requiresthat the Secretary of Labor issueregulations necessary to implementsection 188 not later than one year afterthe date of the enactment of the WIA.Such regulations will include standardsfor determining compliance andprocedures for enforcement that areconsistent with the Acts referred to insection 188(a)(1), as well as proceduresto ensure that complaints filed undersection 188 and such acts are processedin a manner that avoids duplication ofeffort.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Comment PeriodEnd

12/13/99

Final Rule 04/00/02




RIN: 1291–AA29

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management (OASAM)

2086. AUDITS OF STATES, LOCALGOVERNMENTS, AND NONPROFITORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 31 USC 7501 SingleAudit Act Amendments of 1996; OMBCircular A-110; OMB Circular A-133



Abstract: This action adds a new title29 CFR 99 ‘‘Audits of States, LocalGovernments, and Non-ProfitOrganizations’’ as a new regulationwhich codifies the revised Office ofManagement and Budget (OMB)Circular A-133 in its entirety. TheSingle Audit Act Amendments of 1996(Public Law 104-156, 110 Stat. 136) andthe June 24, 1997, revision of OMBCircular A-133, ‘‘Audits of States, LocalGovernments, and Non-ProfitOrganizations,’’ required agencies toadopt in codified regulations thestandards in the revised OMB CircularA-133 by August 29, 1997, so that theywill apply to audits of fiscal yearsbeginning after June 30, 1996. Therevised OMB Circular A-133 co-locatedaudit requirements for States, local

governments, and nonprofitorganizations. As a consequence, theOMB rescinded OMB Circular A-128,‘‘Audits of States and LocalGovernments.’’ On August 29, 1997, theDepartment of Labor amended its grantscommon rules at 29 CFR 95 and 29CFR 97 in accordance with OMBguidance.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective 03/25/99


05/24/99

Final Rule To Be Determined



Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is nostatutory requirement. There is nopaperwork burden associated with thisaction.

Additional Information: The interimrule is in effect. The Final rule isexpected in the first quarter of 2002.

Agency Contact: Phyllis McMeekin,Director, Office of the AcquisitionAdvocate, Department of Labor, Officeof the Assistant Secretary forAdministration and Management, RoomN5425, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-9174Fax: 202 219-9440Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1291–AA26

2087. AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FORGRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND OTHERAGREEMENTS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 31 USC 7500 et seq;OMB Circular A-133



Abstract: This interim final rule revisestitle 29 of the Code of FederalRegulations (CFR) part 96 ‘‘AuditRequirements for Grants, Contracts, andOther Agreements’’ to consolidate



DOL—OASAM Long-Term Actions

various provisions and ensureconsistency, continuity, and ameliorateconflicts with subtitle A of 29 CFRparts 95 and 97.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective 03/25/99


05/24/99




Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is nostatutory requirement. There is nopaperwork burden associated with thisaction.

Additional Information: The interimfinal rule is in effect. The final ruleis expected the first quarter of fiscalyear 2002.


RIN: 1291–AA27

2088. GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS


Legal Authority: PL 105-277



Abstract: The Department is joiningwith other Federal agencies to establishrevised regulations for Grants. Congressincluded a two-sentence provision inOMB’s appropriation for fiscal year1999, contained in Public Law 105-277,directing OMB to revise section 95.36of Circular A-110 ‘‘to require Federalawarding agencies to ensure that alldata produced under an award will bemade available to public through theprocedures established under theFreedom of Information Act.’’ CircularA-110 applies to grants and cooperativeagreements with institutions of highereducation, hospitals, and nonprofit

institutions, from all Federal agencies.OMB finalized the revision onSeptember 30, 1999 (64 FR 54926). Thisinterim final rule amends the agencies’codification of Circular A-110 so theyreflect OMB’s recent action.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective 04/17/00


05/15/00





Additional Information: HHS is thelead agency and will coordinate thenext action with OMB.


RIN: 1291–AA30

2089. EFFECTUATION OF TITLE VI OFTHE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964 ANDIMPLEMENTATION OF SECTION 504OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF1973


Legal Authority: 42 USC 2000(d); 29USC 794



Abstract: This proposal wouldincorporate into 29 CFR parts 31 and32 the term ‘‘program or activity’’ andthe definition of that term as it wasdefined in the Civil Rights RestorationAct of 1987. Part 31 effectuates title VIof the Civil Rights Act of 1964, whichprohibits discrimination on the basis ofrace, color or national origin inprograms or activities that receivefinancial assistance from theDepartment of Labor. Part 32implements section 504 of theRehabilitation Act of 1973, whichprohibits discrimination on the basis of

disability in programs or activities thatreceive financial assistance from theDepartment of Labor.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 01/05/01






RIN: 1291–AA31

2090. GOVERNMENTWIDEDEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION(NONPROCUREMENT) ANDGOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTSFOR DRUG FREE WORKPLACE(GRANTS) 29 CFR 98


Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 40 USC486(c); 41 USC 701



Abstract: This document proposedsubstantive changes and amendmentsto the Governmentwidenonprocurement common rule fordebarment and suspension and thegovernmentwide rule implementing theDrug-Free Workplace Act of 1988. Themost significant changes are: (1) Thisproposed common rule on debarmentand suspension would limit themandatory lower tier application of anexclusion to the first procurement levelunder a nonprocurement coveredtransaction; (2) This proposed commonrule on debarment and suspensionwould set the dollar threshold onprohibited lower-tier procurementtransactions with excluded persons at$25,000; (3) Both this proposed rule ondebarment and suspension and theproposed rule on drug-free workplace



DOL—OASAM Long-Term Actions

requirements would eliminate themandate for agencies and participantsto obtain written certifications fromawardees or persons with whom theypropose to enter into coveredtransactions. The proposed rules willallow agencies and participants theflexibility to use other means if theyso choose, such as award conditions orelectronic access to the GSA List onthe internet, to enforce compliancewith the rules; and (4) The proposedrule on drug-free workplacerequirements would be separated from

this proposed rule on debarment andsuspension. The drug-free workplacerequirements currently are in subpartF of the Debarment and SuspensionNonprocurement Common Rule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM To Be Determined



Additional Information: OMB is waitingfor other agencies participating in thecommon rule to submit their packages.

Agency Contact: Jeffrey D Saylor,Procurement Analyst, Department ofLabor, Office of the Assistant Secretaryfor Administration and Management,200 Constitution Avenue, NW, RoomN5425, FP Building Phone: 202 219-9174Fax: 202 219-9440Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1291–AA33

Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management (OASAM)

2091. DEPARTMENT OF LABORACQUISITION REGULATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other. Majorstatus under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.


Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 40 USC486(c)

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 2900 to 2999


Abstract: The Department of LaborAcquisition Regulations (DOLAR) areorganized following the FAR format,i.e. fifty-three chapters covering specifictopics. However, the DOLAR has notbeen updated since 1986. Since thattime numerous procurement reformshave taken place and the organizationswithin the Department of Labor havechanged, leaving the DOLAR obsoletein many areas, particularly in the areaof e-procurement.

The existing DOLAR proposed ruleswill be modified to:—Remove obsolete references topolicies, procedures, and offices.—Incorporate electronic links toprimary sources of reference such asthe FAR, U.S. Code, and the Code ofFederal Regulations in order to allowthe DOLAR to be used by procurementprofessionals and others as a referencetool.—Incorporate Office of FederalProcurement Policy Letters, ExecutiveOrders and other federal acquisitioninitiatives into Department of Laborpractices.—Establish procedures that followcurrent established best practices.—Restate procedures that have notchanged and are still in effect.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is nostatutory requirement. The agency hasnot yet determined whether there is apaperwork burden associated with thisaction.


RIN: 1291–AA20

Department of Labor (DOL) Prerule StageOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

2092. CONFINED SPACES INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926):PREVENTINGSUFFOCATION/EXPLOSIONS INCONFINED SPACES Priority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 40USC 333


Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In January 1993, OSHAissued a general industry rule to protectemployees who enter confined spaces(29 CFR 1910.146). This standard doesnot apply to the construction industrybecause of differences in the nature ofthe worksite in the constructionindustry. In discussions with theUnited Steel Workers of America on asettlement agreement for the generalindustry standard, OSHA agreed toissue a proposed rule to extend

confined-space protection toconstruction workers appropriate totheir work environment. One millionconstruction workers are exposed to thehazards of confined space entry eachyear. OSHA intends to issue a proposedrule addressing this constructionindustry hazard next year.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Initiate Work for aSBREFA Panel

08/00/02



DOL—OSHA Prerule Stage



Agency Contact: Russell B. Swanson,Director, Directorate of Construction,Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,Room N3468, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2020Fax: 202 693-1689Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB47

2093. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOETHYLENE OXIDE (SECTION 610REVIEW)


Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC553; 5 USC 610



Abstract: OSHA has undertaken areview of the ethylene oxide (ETO)standard in accordance with therequirements of the RegulatoryFlexibility Act and section 5 of EO12866. The review has considered thecontinued need for the rule, theimpacts of the rule, comments on therule received from the public, thecomplexity of the rule, whether the ruleoverlaps, duplicates or conflicts withother Federal, State or local regulations,and the degree to which technology,economic conditions or other factorsmay have changed since the rule waslast evaluated. The Agency’s findingswith respect to this review will bepublished in a report available to thepublic in 2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 10/01/96Publish Report 12/00/01



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950

Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB60

2094. ELECTRIC POWERTRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION;ELECTRICAL PROTECTIVEEQUIPMENT IN THE CONSTRUCTIONINDUSTRY




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.136; 29 CFR1910.137; 29 CFR 1910.269; 29 CFR1926.97; 29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart S;29 CFR 1926,Subpart V


Abstract: Electrical hazards are a majorcause of occupational death in theUnited States. The annual fatality ratefor power line workers is about 50deaths per 100,000 employees. Theconstruction industry standardaddressing the safety of these workersduring the construction of electricpower transmission and distributionlines is nearly 30 years old. OSHA isdeveloping a revision of this standardthat will prevent many of thesefatalities, add flexibility to thestandard, and update and streamlinethe standard. In addition, OSHAintends to amend the correspondingstandard for general industry so thatrequirements for work performedduring the maintenance of electricpower transmission and distributioninstallations are the same as those forsimilar work in construction.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Convene SBREFAPanel

04/00/02



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AB67

2095. GRAIN HANDLING FACILITIES(SECTION 610 REVIEW)


Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC553; 5 USC 610



Abstract: OSHA is undertaking areview of its grain handling standard(29 CFR 1910.272) in accordance withthe requirements of section 610 of theRegulatory Flexibility Act and section5 of EO 12866. The review will coverthe continued need for the rule; thenature of complaints or commentsreceived from the public concerning therule; the complexity of the rule; theextent to which the rule overlaps,duplicates or conflicts with otherFederal rules and, to the extent feasible,with State and local rules; and thedegree to which technology, economicconditions, or other factors havechanged in the industries affected bythe rule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite




Agency Contact: John F. Martonik,Director, Office of Program Audits andEvaluation, Department of Labor,Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3641, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2043Fax: 202 693-1641Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB73

2096. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOBERYLLIUM

Priority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801.





Abstract: OSHA intends to issue aRequest for Information and toundertake and support extensiveresearch to elucidate the mechanisms




of disease underlying ChronicBeryllium Disease or berylliumsensitization and to identify the bestways of reducing employee exposure toberyllium. OSHA will also beidentifying processes, industries, andkind of businesses that involve the useof beryllium. This information isnecessary if OSHA is to develop a ruleto reduce worker exposure to dust orfumes from beryllium metal, metaloxides, or alloys, all of which maycause serious and sometimes fatal lungdisease (chronic beryllium disease(CBD), lung cancer, and skin disease).In 1999, OSHA was petitioned to issuean emergency temporary standard bythe Paper, Allied-Industrial, Chemical,and Energy Workers Union (PACE) andothers. The Agency denied this petitionbut stated its intent to work on astandard to be issued under section6(b)(5) of the Act to protect workersfrom beryllium-related disease. BeforeOSHA can do so, however, it needs asubstantial amount of information onberyllium’s toxicity, risks, and patternsof use. The Request for Information willbe designed to obtain this information.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


09/00/02



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB76

2097. HEARING LOSS PREVENTION INCONSTRUCTION WORKERS

Priority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.





Abstract: OSHA issued a section6(b)(5) health standard mandating acomprehensive hearing conservationprogram for noise exposed workers ingeneral industry in 1983. However, anumber of recent studies have shownthat a large number of constructionworkers experience work-relatedhearing loss. In addition, the use ofengineering, administrative andpersonal protective equipment toreduce exposures to noise is low in thisindustry. OSHA intends to issue anAdvance Notice of ProposedRulemaking (ANPRM) in 2002, and toinitiate stakeholder meetings to gatherinformation on the extent of noise-induced hearing loss among workers indifferent trades in this industry, currentpractices to reduce this loss, andadditional approaches and protectionsthat could be used to prevent such lossin the future.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 06/00/02




RIN: 1218–AB89

2098. ∑ CRANES, DERRICKS, HOISTS,ELEVATORS, AND CONVEYORS


Legal Authority: 29 USC 651(b); 29USC 655(b); 40 USC 333



Abstract: Subpart N addresses hazardsassociated with various types ofhoisting equipment used atconstruction sites. Such equipmentincludes cranes, derricks, hoists,elevators and conveyors. The existingrule, which dates back to 1971, is basedin part on industry consensus standardsfrom 1958, 1968 and 1969. There havebeen considerable technologicalchanges since those consensus

standards were developed. Industryconsensus standards for derricks andfor crawler, truck and locomotivecranes were updated as recently as1995. A number of industrystakeholders have asked OSHA toupdate Subpart N.

OSHA’s Subpart N is now 30 years old,and is based in part on industryconsensus standards as much as 42years old. No changes have been madeto the OSHA standard since 1971.Significant changes have occurred inthe industry since the OSHA standardwas promulgated.

A cross-section of the industry hasstated that there is a need to updateSubpart N. OSHA has determined thatthe existing rule needs to be revised.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Notice of Intent toEstablishNegotiatedRulemakingCommittee

12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AC01

2099. ∑ EXCAVATIONS (SECTION 610REVIEW)


Legal Authority: 5 USC 610; 29 USC651 et seq

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926.650 to1926.652


Abstract: OSHA will undertake areview of the Agency’s trenching andexcavations standard (29 CFR 1926.650to 1926.652) in accordance with therequirements of the RegulatoryFlexibility Act and Section 5 ofExecutive Order 12866. The review willconsider the continued need for therule, the impacts of the rule, public




comments the rule, the complexity ofthe rule, and whether the rule overlaps,duplicates, or conflicts with otherregulations, among other things.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AC02

2100. ∑ PRESENCE SENSING DEVICEINITIATION OF MECHANICAL POWERPRESSES (SECTION 610 REVIEW)


Legal Authority: 5 USC 610; 29 USC651 et seq

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.217(h), appA,B,C


Abstract: OSHA will undertake areview of the Agency’s PresenceSensing Device Initiation of MechanicalPower Presses rule (29 CFR 1910.217)in accordance with the requirements ofthe Regulatory Flexibility Act andsection 5 of Executive Order 12866.The review will consider among otherthings, the need for the rule, theimpacts of the rule, public commentson the rule, the complexity of the rule,and whether the rule overlaps,

duplicates, or conflicts with otherregulations.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AC03

Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

2101. ASSIGNED PROTECTIONFACTORS: AMENDMENTS TO THEFINAL RULE ON RESPIRATORYPROTECTION


RIN: 1218–AA05

2102. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOTUBERCULOSIS


Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect State, local or tribal governments.

Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b)



Abstract: In 1993, the Labor Coalitionto Fight TB in the Workplace petitionedthe Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA) to develop anoccupational health standard to protectworkers who care for or overseepatients or others with activetuberculosis (TB) against thetransmission of TB. After reviewing theavailable information, OSHApreliminarily concluded that asignificant risk of occupationaltransmission of TB exists for some

workers in some work settings andbegan rulemaking on a proposedstandard. Examples of workers at riskof contracting TB as a result of theirwork are health care workers, detentionfacility personnel, and homeless shelteremployees. On October 17, 1997, OSHApublished its proposed standard foroccupational exposure to TB (62 FR54160). The proposed standard wouldrequire employers to protect TB-exposed workers using infection controlmeasures that have been shown to behighly effective in reducing oreliminating work-related TB infections.Such measures include procedures forthe early identification of individualswith infectious TB, isolation ofindividuals with infectious TB usingappropriate ventilation, use ofrespiratory protection in certainsituations, and skin testing and trainingof employees.

After the close of the written commentperiod for the proposed standard,informal public hearings were held inWashington, DC, Los Angeles, CA, NewYork City, NY, and Chicago, IL. Thepost-hearing comment period closed onOctober 5, 1998. On June 17, 1999OSHA reopened the rulemaking recordfor 90 days to submit the Agency’sreport on homeless shelters and certainother documents that became available

to the Agency after the close of thepost-hearing comment period. Duringthis limited reopening of therulemaking record, OSHA alsorequested interested parties to submitcomments and data on the Agency’spreliminary risk assessment in order toobtain the best, most recent data forproviding the most accurate estimatesof the occupational risk of tuberculosis.At the request of Congress, the Instituteof Medicine of the National Academyof Sciences (IOM) conducted a studyof OSHA’s proposal and the need fora TB standard. That study wascompleted in January 2001, andconcluded that OSHA should moveforward with a standard modeled afterthe CDC guidelines and tailored to theextent of TB risk present in thecommunity. The IOM study concludedthat an OSHA standard was needed tomaintain national TB rates amonghealth care and other employees attheir current levels and to preventfuture outbreaks of multi-drug resistantand other forms of TB among theseworkers. OSHA intends to reopen therecord to obtain comment on the IOMstudy and the peer reviewers’ commenton the risk assessment.



DOL—OSHA Proposed Rule Stage

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

SBREFA Panel 09/10/96NPRM 10/17/97 62 FR 54160NPRM Comment

Period End 02/17/98 62 FR 65388

Post HearingComment End

10/05/98

Record Reopening 06/17/99 64 FR 32447Second Reopening

Comment PeriodEnd

06/28/99 64 FR 34625

Reopening CommentPeriod End

08/02/99

Reopening of theComment Period

01/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses,Governmental Jurisdictions,Organizations Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Tribal, Federal Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678RIN: 1218–AB46

2103. GENERAL WORKINGCONDITIONS FOR SHIPYARDEMPLOYMENT Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 33USC 941CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1915, subpart F Legal Deadline: None Abstract: During the 1980s, OSHAembarked on a project to update andconsolidate the various OSHA shipyardstandards that were applied in theshipbuilding, shiprepair, andshipbreaking industry. Publication of aproposal addressing general workingconditions in shipyards is part of thisproject. The operations addressed inthis rulemaking relate to housekeeping,illumination, sanitation, first aid, andlockout/tagout. About 75,000 workersare exposed annually to these hazards.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/00/02




RIN: 1218–AB50

2104. FIRE PROTECTION INSHIPYARD EMPLOYMENT (PART1915, SUBPART P) (SHIPYARDS: FIRESAFETY)


RIN: 1218–AB51

2105. STANDARDS IMPROVEMENT(MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES) FORGENERAL INDUSTRY, MARINETERMINALS, AND CONSTRUCTIONSTANDARDS (PHASE II)


RIN: 1218–AB81

2106. CHANGES TO STATE PLANS





Abstract: Section 18 of theOccupational Safety and Health Act of1970 (the Act), 29 U.S.C. 667, providesthat States that wish to assumeresponsibility for developing andenforcing their own occupational safetyand health standards relating to anyoccupational safety or health issue maydo so by submitting and obtainingFederal approval of a State plan. AState plan consists of the laws,standards and other regulations, andprocedures under which the Stateoperates its occupational safety and

health program. From time to time afterinitial plan approval, States may makechanges to their plans as a result oflegislative, regulatory or administrativeactions. If the State makes a change toits plan which differs from the Federalprogram, the State must notify OSHAof the change to its plan which differsfrom the Federal program (referred toas a plan supplement). OSHA thenreviews the changes; if they meet theapproval criteria OSHA publishes anotice announcing the approval of thechange; if the change does not meet thecriteria OSHA initiates procedures toreject the change.

OSHA is proposing to amend itsregulations regarding State planchanges to streamline the review andapproval process and to allow moreorganizational flexibility in thisprocess. Changes which are identical tocomponents of the Federal programwould not require formal review. Theproposal also would reorganize 29 CFRpart 1953 to eliminate repetitivelanguage. Cross references to part 1953in the CFR would be changed asnecessary to reflect the correctreferences.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End andRequest forHearings

01/07/02





Agency Contact: Paula O. White,Director, Federal-State Operations,Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,Room N3700, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2200Fax: 202 693-1671Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB91



Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

2107. UPDATE AND REVISION OF THEEXIT ROUTES STANDARD Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.96 in part II of this issue of the FederalRegister. RIN: 1218–AB82

2108. SIGNS, SIGNALS, ANDBARRICADES Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.97 in part II of this issue of the FederalRegister. RIN: 1218–AB88

2109. PROCEDURES FOR HANDLINGOF DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTSUNDER THE AVIATION INVESTMENTAND REFORM ACT Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: PL 106-181, WendellH. Ford Aviation Investment andReform Act, sec 519; 49 USC 42121



Abstract: On March 8, 2000, Congressenacted the Wendell H. Ford AviationInvestment and Reform Act for the 21stCentury, commonly known as the AirAct. Section 519 of the Act (49 USC42121) prohibits air carriers or aircarrier contractors or subcontractorsfrom discharging or otherwisediscriminating against employees forexercising specified rights under theAct. The Act further provides that theSecretary of Labor investigate employeeclaims of discrimination and ultimatelyissue a determination and order afteran opportunity for either party torequest a hearing on the record.Procedural rules are needed for filing,investigating, litigating, andadjudicating complaints filed pursuantto the Act.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Interim Final Rule 12/00/01



Agency Contact: John Robert Spear,Director, Office of InvestigativeAssistance, Department of Labor,Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, 200 ConstitutionAvenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2187Fax: 202 693-1681Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB99

Department of Labor (DOL) Long-Term ActionsOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

2110. LONGSHORING AND MARINETERMINALS (PARTS 1917 AND 1918)— REOPENING OF THE RECORD(VERTICAL TANDEM LIFTS (VTLS))

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.


CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1918.11; 29 CFR1918.85


Abstract: OSHA issued a final rule onLongshoring on July 25, 1997 (62 FR40142). However, in that rule, theAgency reserved provisions related tovertical tandem lifts. Vertical tandemlifts (VTLs) involve the lifting of twoor more empty intermodal containers,secured together with twist locks, at thesame time. Because some commentersto the record questioned the safety ofallowing such tandem lifts and therecord did not contain adequateinformation to allow the Agency toaddress this issue, OSHA is workingwith national and internationalorganizations and gathering additionalinformation on the safety of VTLs. TheAgency plans to reopen the record forcomment before proceeding with a finalrule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM onLongshoring/MarineTerminals

06/06/94 59 FR 28594


09/23/94

Final Rule onLongshoring/MarineTerminals

07/25/97 62 FR 40142

Public Meeting onVTLs - 1/27/1998

10/09/97 62 FR 52671

Reopening of Record 10/00/02Final Rule 12/00/02




RIN: 1218–AA56

2111. SCAFFOLDS IN SHIPYARDS(PART 1915 — SUBPART N)






Abstract: During the 1980s, OSHAembarked on a project to update andconsolidate the various OSHAstandards that were applied in theshipbuilding, shiprepair, andshipbreaking industry. Shipyardemployers are subject to both shipyardand general industry standards, andthis project aimed at establishing avertical standard for shipyardemployment. A proposal on scaffoldswas issued in November 1988 (53 FR48092). The next action in thisrulemaking is undetermined.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 02/27/89

Reopened Record 04/12/94 59 FR 17290Comment Period End 06/13/94Next Action Undetermined



DOL—OSHA Long-Term Actions




RIN: 1218–AA68

2112. ACCESS AND EGRESS INSHIPYARDS (PART 1915, SUBPART E)(SHIPYARDS: EMERGENCY EXITSAND AISLES)




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1915.72; 29 CFR1915.74; 29 CFR 1915.75; 29 CFR1915.76


Abstract: In the 1980s, OSHAembarked on a project to update andconsolidate OSHA standards thatapplied to the shipbuilding, shiprepair,and shipbreaking industry. Shipyardemployers are subject to both theshipyard and general industrystandards, and this project aimed atestablishing a vertical standard forshipyard employment. A proposal onaccess and egress was issued inNovember 1988 (53 FR 48092). Thenext action in this rulemaking isundetermined.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 02/27/89




Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AA70

2113. GLYCOL ETHERS: 2-METHOXYETHANOL, 2-ETHOXYETHANOL, AND THEIRACETATES: PROTECTINGREPRODUCTIVE HEALTH




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.1000; 29CFR 1910.1031


Abstract: OSHA published an advancenotice of proposed rulemaking(ANPRM) on April 2, 1987 (52 FR10586). OSHA used the informationreceived in response to the ANPRM, aswell as other information and analysis,and published a proposal on March 23,1993 (58 FR 15526), that would reducethe permissible exposure limits for fourglycol ethers and provide protection forapproximately 46,000 workers exposedto these substances. The next action inthis rulemaking is undetermined.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 07/31/87


Period End 06/07/93





RIN: 1218–AA84

2114. ACCREDITATION OF TRAININGPROGRAMS FOR HAZARDOUSWASTE OPERATIONS (PART 1910)



Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); PL101-549 (November 15, 1990); 5 USC552(a); 5 USC 553



Abstract: The Superfund Amendmentsand Reauthorization Act (SARA) of1986 (Public Law 99-499) establishedthe criteria under which OSHA was todevelop and promulgate the HazardousWaste Operations and EmergencyResponse standard. OSHA issued aninterim final standard on December 19,1986 (51 FR 45654) to comply with thelaw’s requirements. OSHA issued apermanent final rule with provisions ontraining to replace this interim rule onMarch 9, 1989 (29 CFR 1910.120).

On December 22, 1987, as part of anomnibus budget reconciliation bill (PL100-202), Congress amended section126(d)(3) of SARA to includeaccreditation of training programs forhazardous waste operations. OSHAissued a proposal on January 26, 1990(55 FR 2776) addressing this issue.OSHA received public commentsfollowing the issuance of the proposal.OSHA also reopened the record in June1992 to allow additional publiccomment on an effectiveness of trainingstudy that the Agency had conducted.Since that time, OSHA has developednonmandatory guidelines to addresstraining criteria for hazardous wasteworkers, and these have been widelyadopted. In addition, the private sectorhas since established trainingaccreditation procedures. At this time,the next action in this rulemaking isundetermined.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 04/26/90




Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of Safety




Standards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB27

2115. INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN THEWORKPLACE Priority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 29 USC 655CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1915; 29 CFR 1926; 29 CFR 1928Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The health of Americanworkers may be affected by indoor airpollution in the workplace. Afterreviewing and analyzing availableinformation, OSHA published aproposed indoor air quality rule onApril 5, 1994. The proposal wouldrequire employers to write andimplement indoor air qualitycompliance plans that would includeinspection and maintenance of currentbuilding ventilation systems to ensurethey are functioning as designed. Inbuildings where smoking is allowed,the proposal would require designatedsmoking areas that would be separate,enclosed rooms where the air would beexhausted directly to the outside. Otherproposed provisions would requireemployers to maintain healthy airquality during renovation, remodeling,and similar activities. As proposed, theprovisions for indoor air quality wouldapply to 70 million workers and morethan 4.5 million nonindustrial indoorwork environments, including schoolsand training centers, offices,commercial establishments, health carefacilities, cafeterias and factory breakrooms. The proposed environmentaltobacco smoke provisions would applyto all 6 million industrial andnonindustrial work environments underOSHA’s jurisdiction.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


09/20/91 56 FR 47892


Period End 08/13/94 59 FR 30560

Record Closed 02/09/96Next Action Undetermined





RIN: 1218–AB37

2116. INJURY AND ILLNESSPREVENTION






Abstract: The Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA), manyStates, members of the safety andhealth community, insurancecompanies, professional organizations,companies participating in theAgency’s Voluntary ProtectionPrograms, and many proactiveemployers in all industries recognizethe value of worksite-specific injuryand illness prevention programs inreducing and preventing job-relatedinjuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Thereductions in job-related injuries andillnesses, workers’ compensation costs,and absenteeism that occur afteremployers implement such programsdramatically demonstrate theireffectiveness. OSHA has decided todevelop an injury and illnessprevention rule because occupationalinjuries, illnesses, and fatalities arecontinuing to occur at an unacceptablyhigh rate. For example, an average ofabout 16 workers were killed each dayin 1999. This number does not includean estimated 137 daily deathsassociated with job-related chronicillnesses. The Agency is currentlyevaluating the appropriate scope andform of the proposed rule, as well asthe hazards the rule will address, and

is considering a number of regulatoryand non-regulatory alternatives.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/02






RIN: 1218–AB41

2117. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOHEXAVALENT CHROMIUM(PREVENTING OCCUPATIONALILLNESS: CHROMIUM)


Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect the private sector under PL 104-4.




Abstract: In July 1993, theOccupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA) was petitionedfor an emergency temporary standard(ETS) to reduce the permissibleexposure limit (PEL) for occupationalexposures to hexavalent chromium. TheOil, Chemical, and Atomic WorkersInternational Union (OCAW) andPublic Citizen’s Health Research Group(HRG) petitioned OSHA to promulgatean ETS to lower the PEL for hexavalentchromium (CrVI) compounds to 0.5micrograms per cubic meter of air(ug/m3) as an eight-hour, time-weightedaverage (TWA). This would representa significant reduction in the currentPEL. The current PEL in generalindustry is found in 29 CFR 1910.1000Table Z and is a ceiling value of 100ug/m3, measured as chromium (VI) andreported as chromic anhydride (CrO3).




The amount of chromium (VI) in theanhydride compound equates to a PELof 52 ug/m3. This ceiling limit appliesto all forms of hexavalent chromium(VI), including chromic acid andchromates, lead chromate, and zincchromate. The current PEL forhexavalent chromium (VI) in theconstruction industry is 100 ug/m3 asa TWA PEL, which also equates to aPEL of 52 ug/m3. After reviewing thepetition, OSHA denied the request foran ETS and initiated a section 6(b)(5)rulemaking.

The major illnesses associated withoccupational exposure to hexavalentchromium are lung cancer anddermatoses. OSHA estimates thatapproximately one million workers areexposed to hexavalent chromium on aregular basis in all industries. Themajor uses of hexavalent chromium are:as a structural and anti-corrosiveelement in the production of stainlesssteel, ferrochromium, iron and steel,and in electroplating, welding andpainting. Work on a proposed rulecontinues.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM To Be Determined




RIN: 1218–AB45

2118. FALL PROTECTION IN THECONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY





Abstract: OSHA issued an ANPRM togather information on fall protectionissues regarding certain constructionprocesses such as residential homebuilding, precast concrete operationsand post frame construction. The issues

relate to the fall protection rules as theynow apply to roofing work, residentialconstruction operations, climbingreinforcement steel and vendorsdelivering materials to constructionprojects. These issues have arisen sinceOSHA revised the fall protectionstandard in August 1994. The commentperiod on the ANPRM closed January24, 2000. OSHA is now evaluatingcomments to determine whether furtheraction is required.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 01/24/00





RIN: 1218–AB62

2119. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOCRYSTALLINE SILICA




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1926; 29 CFR 1915; 29 CFR 1917; 29CFR 1918


Abstract: OSHA is considering anegotiated or other consensus-basedrulemaking to address the hazardsposed by silica. Silica exposure remainsa serious threat to nearly 2 million U.S.workers, including more than 100,000workers in high risk jobs such asabrasive blasting, foundry work,stonecutting, rock drilling, quarry workand tunneling. The seriousness of thehealth hazards associated with silicaexposure is demonstrated by thefatalities and disabling illnesses thatcontinue to occur in sandblasters androck drillers and by recent studies that

indicate a statistically significantincrease in lung cancer among silica-exposed workers. Exposure studies andOSHA enforcement data indicate thatsome workers are still exposed to veryhigh levels of silica. OSHA plans inthis rulemaking to modernize andstandardize the Agency’s current PELsfor silica so that they will be consistentacross all sectors.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Convene SBREFAPanel or InitiateConsensus-BasedProcess

10/00/02





RIN: 1218–AB70

2120. EMPLOYER PAYMENT FORPERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT


Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 29USC 657; 33 USC 941; 40 USC 333

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.132; 29 CFR1915.152; 29 CFR 1917.96; 29 CFR1918.106; 29 CFR 1926.95


Abstract: Generally, OSHA standardsrequire that protective equipment(including personal protectiveequipment (PPE)) be provided and usedwhen necessary to protect employeesfrom hazards that can cause theminjury, illness, or physical harm. In thisdiscussion, OSHA uses the abbreviation‘‘PPE’’ to cover both personal protectiveequipment and other protectiveequipment. The Agency has proposedto revise its PPE standards to clarifywho is required to pay for required PPEand under what circumstances. OSHAis considering its options and reviewingthe record and has not determined itsnext course of action.




Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 06/14/99

Informal PublicHearing End

08/13/99






RIN: 1218–AB77

2121. WALKING WORKINGSURFACES AND PERSONAL FALLPROTECTION SYSTEMS (1910)(SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLPREVENTION)



Legal Authority: 29 USC 655 (b)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910, subpartsD and I


Abstract: In 1990, OSHA proposed (55FR 13360) a rule addressing slip, trip,and fall hazards and establishingrequirements for personal fallprotection systems. Since that time,new technologies and procedures havebecome available to protect employeesfrom these hazards. The Agency hasbeen working to update these rules toreflect current technology and intendsto issue a new proposal in the nearfuture.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 08/22/90

Hearing 09/11/90 55 FR 29224NPRM (Subparts D

and I) 12/00/02




RIN: 1218–AB80

2122. REVISION AND UPDATE OFSUBPART S—ELECTRICALSTANDARDS



CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910. subpart S


Abstract: The Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) isplanning to revise and update its 29CFR 1910 Subpart S-Electrical Standardand will rely heavily in that processon the materials involved in thedevelopment of the 2000 Edition of theNational Fire Protection Association’s(NFPA’s) 70 E standard for ElectricalSafety Requirements for EmployeeWorkplaces. This revision will providethe first update of Subpart S-Electricalsince the standard was originallypublished in 1981. It will thus allowthe latest technological developmentsto be considered; several of these state-of-the-art safety developments will beaddressed by OSHA for the first time.The update of Subpart S-Electrical willalso at a future time permit thecompletion of standards coveringsafety-related maintenancerequirements and safety requirementsfor special equipment.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Direct Final Rule 12/00/02




Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department of

Labor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AB95

2123. COMMERCIAL DIVINGOPERATIONS: REVISION





Abstract: OSHA’s Commercial DivingOperations standard (29 CFR 1910.401to 1910.441) was published in 1977. Inthe intervening years, major changes inthe technology of diving systems andequipment have occurred. In December1999, OSHA granted a permanentvariance to Dixie Divers, Inc. permittingrecreational diving instructorsemployed by that company to complywith the provisions of the variancerather than with paragraphs (b)(2) and(c)(3)(iii) of 1910.423 and paragraph(b)(1) of 1910.426. Since OSHA grantedthe variance, other employers ofrecreational diving instructors haveasked OSHA to clarify the applicabilityof the variance to their operations.OSHA intends to issue a notice ofproposed rulemaking to obtain data onthe appropriateness of amending thecommercial diving operations standardto reflect the alternative specified in thepermanent variance granted to DixieDivers, Inc.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 10/00/02





RIN: 1218–AB97



Department of Labor (DOL) Completed ActionsOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

2124. PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURELIMITS (PELS) FOR AIRCONTAMINANTS


Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect the private sector under PL 104-4.

Legal Authority: 29 USC 655 (b); 29USC 657

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.1000; 29CFR 1915.1000; 29 CFR 1917.1(a)(2)(ii);29 CFR 1918.1(b)(a); 29 CFR 1926.55


Abstract: OSHA enforces hundreds ofpermissible exposure limits (PELs) fortoxic air contaminants found in U.S.workplaces. OSHA adopted most of theair contaminant limits in 1971 fromrecommendations issued under Federalrules, the American National StandardsInstitute, and other consensusorganizations. These PELs thus reflectthe results of research conducted beforethat time. Since then, much newinformation has become available.OSHA has not yet determined the bestway to proceed with the permissibleexposure limit update process. TheAgency wishes both to expand thecircle of stakeholders engaged in theupdate process and to obtain theirinput earlier in the process.Accordingly and in light of resourceconstraints, OSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the regulatory agenda at thistime.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB54

2125. METALWORKING FLUIDS:PROTECTING RESPIRATORY HEALTH



Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b)(1); 29USC 656(b)



Abstract: In December 1993, theInternational Union, UnitedAutomobile Aerospace and AgriculturalImplement Workers of America,petitioned OSHA to take emergencyregulatory action to protect workersfrom the risks of occupational cancersand respiratory illnesses due toexposure to metalworking fluids. Inresponse to the petition, OSHAestablished a 15-member StandardsAdvisory Committee to makerecommendations to OSHA regardingthe need for a standard, a guideline,or other appropriate response to thedangers of occupational exposures tometalworking fluids. The Committeeconcluded that workers exposed tothese fluids are at risk of developingrespiratory diseases, includinghypersensitivity pneumonitis,occupational asthma, and lung cancerand dermatoses. The Committeedivided on the appropriate response; amajority favored rulemaking whileothers concluded that rulemaking wasinappropriate at this time because ofthe complexity of the issue. TheCommittee submitted its report toOSHA in July, 1999. OSHA has decidedto make the Committee’s reportavailable to the public on the Agency’sweb page. In addition, working withstakeholders and members of theAdvisory Committee, OSHA hasdeveloped a Best Practices Guide formetalworking fluid users and will alsomake this available on the web. OSHAbelieves that the availability of thiscomprehensive and authoritativeoutreach material will greatly reducethe health hazards machinists andothers exposed to these fluids may face.Accordingly, and in light of resourceconstraints, OSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda at this time.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01


Government Levels Affected:Undetermined Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678RIN: 1218–AB58

2126. UPDATE AND REVISION OF THEFLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLELIQUIDS STANDARD Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC553CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.106Legal Deadline: None Abstract: OSHA identified thisstandard for revision as part of aninitiative to update the Agency’s 30-year old safety standards. OSHA maypropose a revision and update of thestandards contained in 29 CFR1910.106 addressing flammable andcombustible liquids storage in the nearfuture; however, due to resourceconstraints, this entry is beingwithdrawn from the agenda at thistime.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB61

2127. PROCESS SAFETYMANAGEMENT OF HIGHLYHAZARDOUS CHEMICALS Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 29 USC 653; 29 USC655; 29 USC 657



DOL—OSHA Completed Actions



Abstract: OSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda at this time dueto resource constraints and otherpriorities.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB63

2128. REVISION AND UPDATE OF THEMECHANICAL POWER-TRANSMISSION APPARATUSSTANDARD


Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC553




Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB66

2129. SAFETY STANDARDS FORSCAFFOLDS USED IN THECONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY—PART II Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant


CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926.450; 29 CFR1926.451; 29 CFR 1926.452; 29 CFR1926.453; 29 CFR 1926.454



Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB68

2130. SAFETY AND HEALTHPROGRAMS FOR CONSTRUCTION Priority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




Agency Contact: Russell B. Swanson,Director, Directorate of Construction,

Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,Room N3468, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2020Fax: 202 693-1689Email: [email protected] RIN: 1218–AB69

2131. CONTROL OF HAZARDOUSENERGY (LOCKOUT) INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926)(PREVENTING CONSTRUCTIONINJURIES/FATALITIES: LOCKOUT) Priority: Economically Significant Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 40USC 333CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926Legal Deadline: None Abstract: OSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda at this time dueto resource constraints and otherpriorities.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Russell B. Swanson,Director, Directorate of Construction,Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,Room N3468, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2020Fax: 202 693-1689Email: [email protected] RIN: 1218–AB71

2132. CONSOLIDATION OF RECORDSMAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS INOSHA STANDARDS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 40 USC 333; 29 USC655; 33 USC 941; 5 USC 553CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1915 to 1918; 29 CFR 1926; 29 CFR1928Legal Deadline: None Abstract: OSHA is withdrawing thisentry from the agenda at this time due




to resource constraints and otherpriorities.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB78

2133. OIL AND GAS WELL DRILLINGAND SERVICING


Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect State, local or tribal governmentsand the private sector.





Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01




RIN: 1218–AB83

2134. UPDATE AND REVISION OF THESPRAY APPLICATIONS STANDARD




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.107; 29 CFR1910.94(c) and 1910.94(d)



Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB84

2135. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOPERCHLOROETHYLENE







Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of Health

Standards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB86

2136. SANITATION IN THECONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY



Legal Authority: 29 USC 651(b); 29USC 655(b); 40 USC 333; 40 USC 327




Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01




RIN: 1218–AB87

2137. UPDATE OF REVISION OF THEWOODWORKING MACHINERYSTANDARD









Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 09/24/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3605, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB92

2138. ERGONOMICS PROGRAMS INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926):PREVENTING WORK-RELATEDMUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERSAMONG CONSTRUCTION WORKERS Priority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined. Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 40USC 333CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926Legal Deadline: None Abstract: OSHA is withdrawing thisagenda entry because the agency iscurrently evaluating its options fordeveloping a comprehensive approachto the ergonomics issue. If OSHAdecides in the future to addressergonomic injuries in the constructionindustry through rulemaking, it willinclude notice of that fact in a futureregulatory agenda.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/21/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected:Undetermined Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of Health

Standards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB94

2139. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH RISKSIN THE MANUFACTURE ANDASSEMBLY OF SEMICONDUCTORS






Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 08/31/01




RIN: 1218–AB96

2140. ∑ OCCUPATIONAL INJURY ANDILLNESS RECORDING ANDREPORTING REQUIREMENTS





Abstract: The Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) issued a

final rule on Occupational Injury andIllness Recording and ReportingRequirements (66 FR 5916, January 19,2001), which is scheduled to becomeeffective on January 1, 2002. Followinga careful review conducted pursuant toWhite House Chief of Staff AndrewCard’s memorandum (66 FR 7702), theAgency has determined that all but twoprovisions of the final rule will takeeffect as scheduled (66 FR 35113, July3, 2001). The record on this proposalclosed on September 4, 2001. OSHAintends to publish a final rule reflectingthe effective dates for sections 1904.10and 1904.12 in the near future.

OSHA will reconsider these twoprovisions in the final rule forrecording occupational hearing lossbased on the occurrence of a StandardThreshold Shift (STS) in hearing acuity(section 1904.10), defining‘‘musculoskeletal disorders’’ andchecking the column on the OSHA 300Log identifying a recordable case as anMSD (section 1904.12). OSHA alsoproposed to delay the effective date ofsections 1904.10 and 1904.12 untilJanuary 1, 2003 to allow time for suchregulatory reconsideration.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End 09/04/01






RIN: 1218–AC00



Department of Labor (DOL) Proposed Rule StageOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment & Training (ASVET)

2141. ∑ ANNUAL REPORT FORFEDERAL CONTRACTORS (2002REVISIONS) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 106-419 VeteransBenefits and Health Care ImprovementAct of 2000CFR Citation: 41 CFR 61-250Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Veterans’ Employmentand Training Service (VETS) isproposing to issue a notice of proposedrulemaking (NPRM) to implementchanges required by the Veterans’

Benefits and Health Care ImprovementAct of 2000. The Act adds anadditional category of veterans,‘‘recently separated veterans,’’ to thelist of protected veterans under theVietnam Era Veterans’ ReadjustmentAssistance Act, as amended (VEVRAA).This proposal will assist VETS inmeeting the statutory requirement ofannually collecting the VETS-100Report.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 04/00/02



Agency Contact: Norm Lance, Chief,Investigations and Compliance, VETS,Department of Labor, Office of theAssistant Secretary for Veterans’Employment & Training, S-1316, 200Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington,DC 20210Phone: 202 693-4731Fax: 202 693-4755

RIN: 1293–AA08

Department of Labor (DOL) Final Rule StageOffice of the Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment & Training (ASVET)

2142. ANNUAL REPORT FORFEDERAL CONTRACTORS


Legal Authority: PL 105-339 VeteransEmployment Opportunities Act of 1998

CFR Citation: 41 CFR 61-250


Abstract: The Veterans’ Employmentand Training Service (VETS) issued afinal rule implementing changesrequired by the Veterans’ EmploymentOpportunities Act of 1998. The Actrequires most Federal contractors andsubcontractors with contracts in theamount of $25,000 or more to reporttheir efforts toward hiring andemployment of qualified veterans. TheAct adds an additional category ofveterans, ‘‘other veterans who haveserved on active duty during a war orin a campaign or expedition for whicha campaign badge has been

authorized,’’ to the list of protectedveterans under the Vietnam EraVeterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act,as amended (VEVRAA). The Act alsoadds the requirement that coveredcontractors and subcontractors reporttheir minimum and maximum numberof employees. This rule will assistVETS in meeting the statutoryrequirement of annually collecting theVETS-100 Report. After publicationVETS learned that the final rule mayinadvertently increase recordkeepingburden on some contractors.Accordingly, an interim final rule willbe published permitting contractorsflexibility in how they determine themaximum and minimum number ofemployees reported.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 10/05/00 65 FR 59683

Action Date FR Cite


12/06/00

Final Rule 10/11/01 66 FR 51997Final Rule Effective 11/13/01Interim Final Rule 12/00/01



Agency Contact: Norm Lance, Chief,Investigations and Compliance, VETS,Department of Labor, Office of theAssistant Secretary for Veterans’Employment & Training, S-1316, 200Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington,DC 20210Phone: 202 693-4731Fax: 202 693-4755

RIN: 1293–AA07[FR Doc. 01–25308 Filed 11–30–01; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4510–23–S
