Labor Dept Scrubs Old ERISA Bulletins for Clarity

2026-05492 — Retirement Security Rule: Definition of an Investment Advice Fiduciary: Notice of Court Vacatur

The court has canceled the Department of Labor’s 2024 rule that changed who counts as a trusted investment advisor for retirement plans. Starting April 20, 2026, the old rules from 2020 will be back in charge, affecting financial advisors and retirement plan managers. This means advisors should review their practices to stay on the right side of the law and avoid costly mistakes.

2025-14281 — Pooled Employer Plans: Big Plans for Small Businesses

Small businesses get a big boost with new guidance on pooled employer plans (PEPs), which help them offer better, cheaper retirement savings options. The government is asking for feedback to create clear rules that make joining these plans easier and more affordable. Starting soon, these changes aim to save workers money and help small employers attract great employees.

2026-06178 — Fiduciary Duties in Selecting Designated Investment Alternatives

The Department of Labor is proposing new rules to help those in charge of 401(k) plans pick smart investment options, including some alternative assets. This makes it clearer how to act responsibly and safely when choosing these investments, aiming to give more people access to different ways to grow their retirement money. Plan managers and investors should weigh in by June 1, 2026, as these changes could impact how retirement funds are handled and grown.

2026-05165 — Proposed Exemption From Certain Prohibited Transaction Restrictions Involving AT&T Inc. (Together With AT&T Inc.'s Affiliates, AT&T or the Applicant) Located in Dallas, Texas

The Department of Labor is considering a special rule change for AT&T and its affiliates in Dallas, Texas, that would adjust some financial transaction restrictions from 2013 through 2023. This change could affect how AT&T handles certain employee benefit transactions, with a chance for the public to comment or request a hearing by June 17, 2026. If approved, it updates past rules to better fit AT&T’s business needs without harming workers’ benefits.

2026-03827 — Exemption Involving the International Union of Operating Engineers Local Union 627 Training Fund of Oklahoma (the Plan or the Applicant) Located in Oklahoma City, OK

The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 627 Training Fund in Oklahoma City got the green light to borrow money at a low interest rate to buy heavy machinery. This deal, effective February 26, 2026, helps the fund grow while protecting its members’ interests. An independent expert will watch over the loan to keep everything fair and square.

2026-03826 — Exemption Involving the Liberty Latin America 401(k) Savings Plan (the Plan or the Applicant) Located in Denver, CO

The Liberty Latin America 401(k) Plan in Denver got a special green light to buy, hold, and sell certain stock rights from September 10 to 25, 2020. This means plan members could grab these rights for free and either sell them or buy discounted stock, helping their retirement savings. The Department of Labor reviewed and approved this move as fair and safe for everyone involved.

Previous: 2025-12035 — Freedom of Information Act Program

Amtrak is shaking things up by updating where you send Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, raising the fees a bit, and changing how you file them. If you want info from Amtrak, get ready for new rules that make the process clearer and a little pricier. These changes help Amtrak handle requests faster and better, starting soon!

Next: 2025-11615 — Selection of Annuity Providers-Safe Harbor for Individual Account Plans

This rule removes an old safety rule for picking annuity providers in retirement plans because a newer, simpler law already covers it. It affects companies managing retirement plans and helps cut confusing, costly rules. The change starts right away, making life easier and less expensive for everyone involved.