Labor Department Ditches Extra Public Comments to Streamline Rules

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.

2026-03962 — Employee or Independent Contractor Status Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, and Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act

The Department of Labor wants to update how we decide if someone is an employee or an independent contractor for three big laws: the Fair Labor Standards Act, Family and Medical Leave Act, and Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act. They’re bringing back a 2021 rule with some tweaks and applying it to all three laws. If you’re a worker or a business, this could change your rights and responsibilities, so get ready to share your thoughts by April 28, 2026!

2025-23626 — Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Service Contracts; Rescission of Regulations

Starting December 22, 2025, the Department of Labor is canceling rules that protected workers from being replaced when service contracts change hands. This affects companies with federal service contracts and the workers they hire. The change means fewer job protections for these workers, following a presidential order to roll back previous rules.

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.

2025-12316 — Application of the Fair Labor Standards Act to Domestic Service

If you hire home helpers like caregivers or housekeepers, this update matters! The government wants to bring back old rules that let some helpers skip overtime and minimum wage rules, making care more affordable. These changes could start soon, helping families and workers find a fair balance without extra costs.

2026-06509 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Employee Benefit Plan Claims Procedure Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act

The Department of Labor is asking for public feedback on how employee benefit plans handle claim denials and appeals under ERISA. This affects anyone with a retirement or health plan, ensuring they get clear, written reasons if their claim is denied and know how to appeal. Comments are open until May 4, 2026, with no new costs but a focus on keeping the process clear and fair.

Previous: 2025-12212 — Removal of Pumped Bacon Sampling Regulations

FSIS is officially dropping the old rules about testing pumped bacon for nitrosamines since they stopped doing those tests way back in 1998. This change affects bacon producers and inspectors by clearing up outdated rules, with no new costs or deadlines involved. It’s a simple cleanup that keeps the bacon game fresh and clear!

Next: 2025-12240 — Establishing the Digital Opportunity Data Collection; Modernizing the FCC Form 477 Data Program

The FCC is making it easier for companies to report broadband data by dropping the strict professional engineer certification and allowing qualified engineers with the right experience to sign off instead. This change affects internet providers who submit data twice a year and aims to speed up and simplify the process. Expect smoother filings soon, helping everyone get better info on internet access across the country.