DOL Seeks Feedback on Closing Out Grant Paper Trails

2026-15717, Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria

In response to a public request, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reopening the rulemaking record and is scheduling a virtual public hearing on the Agency's proposed rule published on July 1, 2025, titled, "Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria."

2026-15670, Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria

In response to a public request, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is reopening the rulemaking record and is scheduling a virtual public hearing on the Agency's proposed rule published on July 1, 2025, titled, "Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria."

2026-15325, Black Lung Benefits Act: Authorization of Self-Insurers

The Department is proposing revisions to regulations under the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA or the Act) governing authorization of self-insurers. These rules will determine the process for coal mine operators to apply for authorization to self-insure, the requirements operators must meet to qualify to self-insure, the amount of security self-insured operators must provide, and the types of security accepted for operators to self-insure.

2026-14917, Electronic Disclosure by Group Health Plans Under ERISA

Group health plans can soon share important info online instead of paper, making it easier and cheaper for everyone. If this rule passes, plan administrators must notify members about electronic disclosures but still offer paper copies if requested. This change affects anyone in group health plans under ERISA and aims to save time and money starting after the rule is finalized.

2026-11140, Federal Independent Dispute Resolution Operations

Starting soon, health plans and insurers must share clearer info when they pay or deny surprise medical bills. They’ll use special codes to explain these decisions, especially when dealing with folks they don’t have contracts with. This helps patients and providers understand bills better and speeds up fixing disputes, with no extra costs for most people.

2026-11093, Amending the Medical Evaluation Requirements in the Respiratory Protection Standard for Certain Types of Respirators

OSHA wants to make it easier for workers using certain respirators by removing some medical check-ups for filtering facepiece and loose-fitting powered air-purifying respirators. This change affects workers who wear these masks and could save time and money on medical evaluations. The public can share their thoughts until July 6, 2026, before the rule is finalized.

Previous: 2025-23060, Manlifts Standard; Extension of the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Approval of Information Collection (Paperwork) Requirements

OSHA is asking for public feedback to keep the paperwork rules for manlifts going strong. This affects employers who use manlifts, making sure they keep up with safety info collection without extra hassle. Comments are open until February 17, 2026, with no new costs or big changes planned—just a smooth extension of current rules.

Next: 2025-23062, Notice of Public Meeting in Preparation for International Maritime Organization SDC 12

The Department of State is hosting a public meeting on January 12, 2026, to get ready for an important international ship safety and design event happening later that month. Shipbuilders, operators, and safety fans should tune in to learn about updates on ship fire safety, new engine rules, and greener shipping goals. The meeting is free, open to 500 virtual guests or in-person attendees, but you need to RSVP by January 7 to join.