part xii · 502(6)(2) (rin 1210-aa83) civil penalties under erisa section 502(c)(2) (rin 1210-aa84)...

Thursday,

November 30, 2000

Part XII

Department of LaborSemiannual Regulatory Agenda

VerDate 11<MAY>2000 15:30 Nov 09, 2000 Jkt 190000 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4717 Sfmt 4717 D:\PRESS\UA001012.TXT APPS10 PsN: UA001012

74072 Federal Register / Vol. 65, No. 231 / Thursday, November 30, 2000 / 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 Regulations

AGENCY: 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 agenda complies withthe requirements of both ExecutiveOrder 12866 and the RegulatoryFlexibility Act. The agenda lists allregulations that are expected to beunder review or development betweenOctober 2000 and October 2001 as wellas those completed during the past 6months.

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) 219-6197.

NOTE: Information pertaining to a specificregulation can be obtained from the agencycontact listed for that particular regulation.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ExecutiveOrder 12866 and the RegulatoryFlexibility 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 all

departmental 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.

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 publisha 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.In the November 22, 1999, UnifiedAgenda, the Department listed six rulesthat were to be reviewed in thesucceeding 12 months.

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 Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration (PWBA) has four newitems on the review list: Bonding Rulesunder ERISA, Enforcement Pursuant toSection 502(6)(2), Civil Penalties underERISA Section 502(c)(2), andAssessment of Civil Penalties UnderERISA Section 502(c)(2).

The Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration (OSHA) had four itemson the last two years’ review lists:Control of Hazardous Energy Sources(Lockout/Tagout), OccupationalExposure to Ethylene Oxide, GrainHandling Facilities, and Cotton Dust.OSHA completed its review ofLockout/Tagout and published its reporton January 30, 2000, concluding that the

rule is necessary and should becontinued without change. However,OSHA will revise the compliancedirective for the Lockout/Tagoutstandard and develop and disseminatecompliance assistance materials. OSHAhas just completed its review of CottonDust and, on the recommendation of theWashed Cotton Task Force, has issueda direct final rule expanding the washedcotton partial exemption. OSHA expectsto complete its review of the EthyleneOxide standard in December 2000 andto complete its review of the GrainHandling standard in January 2001.

The Mine Safety and HealthAdministration (MSHA) conducted thereview of its regulations in 30 CFR part48 addressing Training and Retrainingof Miners which has resulted inrulemaking.

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.

Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration

Bonding Rules Under ERISA (RIN1210-AA82)

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

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

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

Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration

Occupational Exposure to EthyleneOxide; 29 CFR 1910.1047 (RIN 1218-AB60)

Grain Handling Facilities; 29 CFR1910.272 (RIN 1218-AB73)

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.

Alexis M. Herman,Secretary of Labor.


74073Federal Register / Vol. 65, No. 231 / Thursday, November 30, 2000 / Unified Agenda

DOL

Office of the Secretary—Proposed Rule Stage

SequenceNumber Title

RegulationIdentification

Number

2137 Production or Disclosure of Information or Materials ................................................................................................... 1290-AA17

Employment Standards Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2138 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. 73) ................................................................................................. 1215-AA14

2139 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

2140 Records To Be Kept by Employers Under the Fair Labor Standards Act ................................................................... 1215-AB032141 Implementation of the 1996 Amendments to the Fair Labor Standards Act ................................................................ 1215-AB132142 Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction (29

CFR Part 5) Definition of ‘‘Site of the Work’’ Under the Davis-Bacon Act .................................................................. 1215-AB212143 Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors Regarding Individuals

With Disabilities ............................................................................................................................................................ 1215-AB232144 Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors for Special Disabled Vet-

erans and Veterans of the Vietnam Era ....................................................................................................................... 1215-AB242145 Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination Obligations of Contractors and Subcontractors Regarding Special Dis-

abled Veterans and Veterans of the Vietnam Era (Revised) ....................................................................................... 1215-AB272146 Government Contractors: Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Obligations, Executive Order 11246

(ESA/OFCCP) (Revised) .............................................................................................................................................. 1215-AB282147 Longshore Act Medical Fee Schedule .......................................................................................................................... 1215-AB302148 Stock Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, and Bona Fide Employee Stock Purchase Programs Under the Fair

Labor Standards Act ..................................................................................................................................................... 1215-AB31

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

2149 Government Contractors: Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Obligations, Executive Order 11246(ESA/OFCCP) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 74) ....................................................................................................................... 1215-AA01

2150 Child Labor Regulations, Orders, and Statements of Interpretation (ESA/W-H) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 75) ................. 1215-AA092151 Procedures for Predetermination of Wage Rates (29 CFR Part 1) and Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to

Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction (29 CFR Part 5) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 76) ........ 1215-AA942152 Black Lung Benefits Under the Federal Coal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1969, as Amended ............................. 1215-AA992153 Labor Condition Applications and Requirements for Employers Using Nonimmigrants on H-1B Visas in Specialty

Occupations and as Fashion Models ........................................................................................................................... 1215-AB092154 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-AB202155 Service Contract Act Exemption for Certain Commercial Service Contracts ............................................................... 1215-AB26


Employment Standards Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2156 Application of the Fair Labor Standards Act to Domestic Service ............................................................................... 1215-AA822157 Assessment and Collection of User Fees .................................................................................................................... 1215-AB06



DOL

Employment Standards Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2158 Standards for Waivers Under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act ........................................................................... 1215-AA84

Employment and Training Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2159 Labor Certification Process for the Permanent Employment of Aliens in the United States ....................................... 1205-AA662160 Federal-State Unemployment Compensation Program; Unemployment Insurance Performance System ................. 1205-AB10

Employment and Training Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2161 Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers—Implementation of 1988 Amendments ................................................... 1205-AB052162 Trade Adjustment Assistance for Workers—Transitional Adjustment Assistance NAFTA-TAA .................................. 1205-AB072163 Welfare-to-Work (WTW) Grants (Reg Plan Seq. No. 77) ........................................................................................... 1205-AB152164 Federal-State Unemployment Compensation (UC) Program; Confidentiality and Disclosure of Information in State

UC Records .................................................................................................................................................................. 1205-AB182165 Labor Certification Process for the Permanent Employment of Aliens in the United States; Refiling of Applications 1205-AB252166 Attestations by Facilities Temporarily Employing H-1C Nonimmigrant Aliens as Registered Nurses ......................... 1205-AB27


Employment and Training Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2167 Services to Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers, Job Service Complaint System, Monitoring, and Enforcement ..... 1205-AA372168 Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program, Amendment to Regulations ................................................................ 1205-AB022169 Establishment of Fees for Immigration Programs Administered by the Employment and Training Administration .... 1205-AB142170 Indian and Native American Welfare-to-Work Program ............................................................................................... 1205-AB162171 Labor Certification and Petition Process for the Temporary Employment of Nonimmigrant Aliens in Agriculture in

the United States; Modification of Fee Structure ......................................................................................................... 1205-AB24

Employment and Training Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2172 Workforce Investment Act of 1998 ............................................................................................................................... 1205-AB202173 Birth and Adoption Unemployment Compensation ....................................................................................................... 1205-AB212174 Labor Certification and Petition Process for the Temporary Employment of Nonimmigrant Aliens in Agriculture in

the United States; Delegation of Authority to Adjudicate H-2A Petitions .................................................................... 1205-AB23

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2175 Bonding Rules Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (Section 610 Review) ..................... 1210-AA822176 Requests for Enforcement Pursuant to Section 502(b)(2) (Section 610 Review) ...................................................... 1210-AA832177 Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section 502(c)(2) (Section 610 Review) ...................................................................... 1210-AA84



DOL

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Prerule Stage (Continued)



Number

2178 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

2179 Definition of Collective Bargaining Agreement (ERISA Section 3(40)) ........................................................................ 1210-AA482180 Rulemaking Relating to Notice Requirements for Continuation of Health Care Coverage ......................................... 1210-AA602181 Prohibiting Discrimination Against Participants and Beneficiaries Based on Health Status ........................................ 1210-AA772182 Regulation Exempting Certain Broker-Dealer and Investment Advisers from Bonding Requirements ....................... 1210-AA80

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2183 Regulations Implementing the Health Care Access, Portability and Renewability Provisions of the Health Insur-ance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Reg Plan Seq. No. 78) ................................................................... 1210-AA54

2184 Amendment of Summary Plan Description and Related ERISA Regulations To Implement Statutory Changes inthe Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (Reg Plan Seq. No. 79) ......................................... 1210-AA55

2185 Amendments to Employee Benefit Plan Claims Procedures Regulation (Reg Plan Seq. No. 80) ............................. 1210-AA612186 Health Care Standards for Mothers and Newborns ..................................................................................................... 1210-AA632187 Reporting Requirements for MEWAs Providing Medical Care Benefits ....................................................................... 1210-AA642188 Elimination of Filing Requirements for Summary Plan Descriptions ............................................................................ 1210-AA662189 Requirement To Furnish Plan Documents Upon Request by the Secretary of Labor ................................................. 1210-AA672190 Civil Penalty for Failure To Furnish Certain Plan Documents ...................................................................................... 1210-AA682191 Amendments to Summary Plan Description Regulations (Reg Plan Seq. No. 81) .................................................... 1210-AA692192 Electronic Disclosure of Employee Benefit Plan Information ....................................................................................... 1210-AA712193 National Medical Support Notice .................................................................................................................................. 1210-AA722194 Soft Dollar (Interpretive Bulletin) ................................................................................................................................... 1210-AA742195 Rulemaking Relating to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 ............................................................ 1210-AA752196 Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Program ....................................................................................................................... 1210-AA76


Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2197 Adequate Consideration ................................................................................................................................................ 1210-AA152198 Civil Penalties Under ERISA Section 502(1) ................................................................................................................ 1210-AA372199 Mental Health Benefits Parity ....................................................................................................................................... 1210-AA622200 Individual Benefits Reporting Requirements for Defined Contribution Plans ............................................................... 1210-AA65

Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2201 Revision of the Form 5500 Series and Implementing and Related Regulations Under the Employee Retirement In-come Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) ............................................................................................................................. 1210-AA52

2202 Small Pension Plan Security Amendments .................................................................................................................. 1210-AA732203 Amendments Regarding Allocation of Fiduciary Responsibility; Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board ........... 1210-AA79



DOL

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2204 Occupational Exposure to Coal Mine Dust (Lowering Exposure Limit) ....................................................................... 1219-AB082205 Mine Rescue Teams ..................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB20

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2206 Metal/Nonmetal Impoundments .................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA832207 Surface Haulage ........................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA932208 Improving and Eliminating Regulations ........................................................................................................................ 1219-AA982209 Electrical Standards for Metal and Nonmetal Mines .................................................................................................... 1219-AB012210 Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard .......................................................................................................................... 1219-AB122211 Safety Standards for Self-Contained Self-Rescue Devices in Coal and Metal/Nonmetal Underground Mines .......... 1219-AB192212 Surge and Storage Piles ............................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB222213 Escapeways and Refuges ............................................................................................................................................ 1219-AB232214 Accident Investigation Hearing Procedures .................................................................................................................. 1219-AB26

Mine Safety and Health Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2215 Hazard Communication ................................................................................................................................................. 1219-AA472216 Diesel Particulate Matter (Exposure of Underground Coal Miners) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 82) ..................................... 1219-AA742217 Longwall Equipment (Including High-Voltage) .............................................................................................................. 1219-AA752218 Independent Laboratory Testing ................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA872219 Requirements for Approval of Flame-Resistant Conveyor Belts .................................................................................. 1219-AA922220 Diesel Particulate Matter (Exposure of Underground Metal and Nonmetal Miners) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 83) ............ 1219-AB112221 Verification of Underground Coal Mine Operators’ Dust Control Plans and Compliance Sampling for Respirable

Dust (Reg Plan Seq. No. 84) ...................................................................................................................................... 1219-AB142222 Determination of Concentration of Respirable Coal Mine Dust (Reg Plan Seq. No. 85) ........................................... 1219-AB18


Mine Safety and Health Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2223 Air Quality, Chemical Substances, and Respiratory Protection Standards .................................................................. 1219-AA482224 Confined Spaces ........................................................................................................................................................... 1219-AA542225 Belt Entry Use as Intake Aircourse To Ventilate Working Sections ............................................................................. 1219-AA762226 Safety Standard Revisions for Underground Anthracite Mines .................................................................................... 1219-AA962227 Training and Retraining of Miners (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review) ...................................... 1219-AB022228 Verification of Surface Coal Mines Dust Control Plans ................................................................................................ 1219-AB212229 Asbestos Exposure Limit .............................................................................................................................................. 1219-AB24

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



Number

2230 Effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Actof 1973 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1291-AA31



DOL

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



Number

2231 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age in Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance Fromthe Department of Labor .............................................................................................................................................. 1291-AA21

2232 Implementation of the Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Requirements of the Workforce Investment Act of1998 .............................................................................................................................................................................. 1291-AA29

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



Number

2233 Department of Labor Acquisition Regulation ................................................................................................................ 1291-AA202234 Audits of States, Local Governments, and Nonprofit Organizations ............................................................................ 1291-AA262235 Audit Requirements for Grants, Contracts, and Other Agreements ............................................................................. 1291-AA272236 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs and Activities Receiving or Benefiting From Federal Fi-

nancial Assistance ........................................................................................................................................................ 1291-AA282237 Grants and Agreements ................................................................................................................................................ 1291-AA30

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



Number

2238 Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex in Federally Assisted Programs and Activities—Implementation of Title IXof the Education Amendments of 1972 ........................................................................................................................ 1291-AA32

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Prerule Stage



Number

2239 Occupational Exposure to Ethylene Oxide (Section 610 Review) .............................................................................. 1218-AB602240 Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous Chemicals .................................................................................... 1218-AB632241 Grain Handling Facilities (Section 610 Review) .......................................................................................................... 1218-AB732242 Prevention of Needlestick and Other Sharps Injuries .................................................................................................. 1218-AB852243 Occupational Exposure to Perchloroethylene ............................................................................................................... 1218-AB862244 Sanitation ...................................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB872245 Hearing Loss Prevention in Construction Workers ....................................................................................................... 1218-AB89

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Proposed Rule Stage



Number

2246 Safety and Health Programs (for General Industry and the Maritime Industries) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 86) ............... 1218-AB412247 Occupational Exposure to Hexavalent Chromium (Preventing Occupational Illness: Chromium) ............................... 1218-AB452248 Confined Spaces in Construction (Part 1926): Preventing Suffocation/Explosions in Confined Spaces .................... 1218-AB472249 Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) for Air Contaminants .......................................................................................... 1218-AB542250 Plain Language Revision of the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Standard ........................................................ 1218-AB612251 Plain Language Revision of the Mechanical Power-Transmission Apparatus Standard ............................................. 1218-AB662252 Electric Power Transmission and Distribution; Electrical Protective Equipment in the Construction Industry ............ 1218-AB672253 Occupational Exposure to Crystalline Silica (Reg Plan Seq. No. 87) ......................................................................... 1218-AB702254 Standards Improvement (Miscellaneous Changes) for General Industry, Marine Terminals, and Construction

Standards (Phase II) ..................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB812255 Plain Language Revisions to Spray Applications ......................................................................................................... 1218-AB842256 Signs, Signals, and Barricades ..................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB88



DOL

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Proposed Rule Stage (Continued)



Number

2257 Changes to State Plans ................................................................................................................................................ 1218-AB91


Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Final Rule Stage



Number

2258 Steel Erection (Part 1926) (Safety Protection for Ironworkers) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 88) ............................................ 1218-AA652259 Glycol Ethers: 2-Methoxyethanol, 2-Ethoxyethanol, and Their Acetates: Protecting Reproductive Health ................. 1218-AA842260 Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (Simplified Injury/Illness Recordkeeping Require-

ments) (Reg Plan Seq. No. 89) ................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB242261 Ergonomics Programs: Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders (Reg Plan Seq. No. 90) ............................................ 1218-AB362262 Occupational Exposure to Tuberculosis (Reg Plan Seq. No. 91) ............................................................................... 1218-AB462263 Employer Payment for Personal Protective Equipment (Reg Plan Seq. No. 92) ....................................................... 1218-AB772264 Consultation .................................................................................................................................................................. 1218-AB792265 Walking Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems (1910) (Slips, Trips and Fall Prevention) ............ 1218-AB802266 Plain Language Revisions to the Exit Routes Standard .............................................................................................. 1218-AB822267 Cotton Dust: Washed Cotton Exemption (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review) ............................ 1218-AB90


Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Long-Term Actions



Number

2268 Respiratory Protection (Proper Use of Modern Respirators) ....................................................................................... 1218-AA052269 Longshoring and Marine Terminals (Parts 1917 and 1918) — Reopening of the Record (Vertical Tandem Lifts

(VTLs)) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AA562270 Scaffolds in Shipyards (Part 1915 — Subpart N) ......................................................................................................... 1218-AA682271 Access and Egress in Shipyards (Part 1915, Subpart E) (Shipyards: Emergency Exits and Aisles) ......................... 1218-AA702272 Accreditation of Training Programs for Hazardous Waste Operations (Part 1910) ..................................................... 1218-AB272273 Indoor Air Quality in the Workplace .............................................................................................................................. 1218-AB372274 General Working Conditions for Shipyard Employment ............................................................................................... 1218-AB502275 Fire Protection in Shipyard Employment (Part 1915, Subpart P) (Shipyards: Fire Safety) ......................................... 1218-AB512276 Metalworking Fluids: Protecting Respiratory Health ..................................................................................................... 1218-AB582277 Fall Protection in the Construction Industry .................................................................................................................. 1218-AB622278 Safety Standards for Scaffolds Used in the Construction Industry—Part II ................................................................. 1218-AB682279 Safety and Health Programs for Construction .............................................................................................................. 1218-AB692280 Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout) in Construction (Part 1926) (Preventing Construction Injuries/Fatalities:

Lockout) ........................................................................................................................................................................ 1218-AB712281 Occupational Exposure to Beryllium ............................................................................................................................. 1218-AB762282 Consolidation of Records Maintenance Requirements in OSHA Standards ............................................................... 1218-AB782283 Oil and Gas Well Drilling and Servicing ....................................................................................................................... 1218-AB832284 Woodworking Machinery ............................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB922285 Ergonomics Programs in Construction (Part 1926): Preventing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders among

Construction Workers ................................................................................................................................................... 1218-AB942286 Subpart S—Electrical Standards .................................................................................................................................. 1218-AB952287 Occupational Health Risks in the Manufacture and Assembly of Semiconductors ..................................................... 1218-AB962288 Commercial Diving Operations: Technical Amendment ............................................................................................... 1218-AB97



DOL

Occupational Safety and Health Administration—Completed Actions



Number

2289 Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories Programs: Fees ..................................................................................... 1218-AB572290 Revocation of Certification Records for Tests, Inspections, and Training ................................................................... 1218-AB652291 Cotton Dust (Completion of a Section 610 Review) ................................................................................................. 1218-AB74

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



Number

2292 Annual Report for Federal Contractors ......................................................................................................................... 1293-AA07

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

2137. 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 01/00/01

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: 202 219-8188Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1290–AA17

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

2138. DEFINING AND DELIMITING THETERM ‘‘ANY EMPLOYEE EMPLOYEDIN A BONA FIDE EXECUTIVE,ADMINISTRATIVE, ORPROFESSIONAL CAPACITY’’ (ESA/W-H)

Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.73 in Part II of this issue of the FederalRegister.

RIN: 1215–AA14

2139. REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENTTHE FEDERAL ACQUISITIONSTREAMLINING ACT OF 1994, 29 CFRPARTS 4 AND 5, 41 CFR PARTS 50-201 AND 50-206


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text in

the CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.

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, amends several Actsadministered by the Department ofLabor: (1) It amends the Contract WorkHours and Safety Standards Act(CWHSSA) to limit its applicability tocontracts in an amount of $100,000 orgreater. (2) It amends the Davis-BaconAct (DB) to provide waivers from theAct’s prevailing wage requirements

under selected laws for volunteersperforming services to a State or localgovernment or agency and forvolunteers performing services to apublic or private nonprofit recipient ofFederal assistance. (3) It also amendsthe 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 46553



DOL—ESA Proposed Rule Stage

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM CommentPeriod End

10/10/95

Final Rule - Walsh-Healey/CWHSSARule

08/05/96 61 FR 40714

Second NPRM 04/00/01


Government Levels Affected: Federal,State, Local

Agency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432

RIN: 1215–AA96

2140. RECORDS TO BE KEPT BYEMPLOYERS UNDER THE FAIRLABOR STANDARDS ACT


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.

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 7

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 516 et seq


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) regardingpayment 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. Thisregulation was included in theDepartment’s regulatory reinventioninitiative as a candidate for possiblesimplification of regulatory languageand streamlining of regulatoryrequirements to ensure that applicablestandards are easily understandable andreasonable.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00




RIN: 1215–AB03

2141. 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 04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: Federal,State, LocalAgency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AB13

2142. LABOR STANDARDSPROVISIONS APPLICABLE TOCONTRACTS COVERING FEDERALLYFINANCED AND ASSISTEDCONSTRUCTION (29 CFR PART 5)DEFINITION OF ‘‘SITE OF THE WORK’’UNDER THE DAVIS-BACON ACTPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 40 USC 276a to 276a-7; 40 USC 276cCFR Citation: 29 CFR 5Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Two appellate courtdecisions have ruled that theDepartment of Labor’s definition of‘‘site of the work’’ in section 5.2(l) ofthe Davis-Bacon Act regulations doesnot conform to the statutory languageof the Davis-Bacon Act, which requirespayment of prevailing wages asdetermined under the Act to alllaborers and mechanics ‘‘employeddirectly upon the site of the work.’’(See e.g., Ball, Ball and Brosamer v.Reich, 24 F.3d 1447, (D.C. Cir. 1994);L.P. Cavett Company v. U.S.Department of Labor, 101 F.3d 1111(6th Cir. 1996).) The Department isproposing technical clarifications ofDavis-Bacon coverage based on the siteof the work definition as a result ofthese court decisions and to addresssome situations not contemplated whenthe existing regulations were issued.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/21/00 65 FR 57270NPRM Comment

Period End10/23/00

Final Action 04/00/01





Government Levels Affected: Federal,State, LocalAgency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AB21

2143. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION ANDNONDISCRIMINATION OBLIGATIONSOF CONTRACTORS ANDSUBCONTRACTORS REGARDINGINDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIESPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 706; 29 USC793; EO 11758CFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-741 (Revision)Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: OFCCP proposes to revise theregulations implementing section 503of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, asamended, to conform to the recentlyrevised section 60-1.20(a) of theregulations implementing E.O. 11246,as amended. The section authorizesOFCCP to use a range of methods toevaluate a contractor’s compliance withthe regulations.In incorporating the recent revisions of60-1.20, however, this NPRM wouldremove the obligation to visit anestablishment during a compliancecheck, which is currently required bysection 60-1.20(a)(3), in order toenhance efficiency in resourceallocation. (OFCCP also proposes tomake the same revision in section 60-1.20(a)(3) and in section 60-250.60(a)(3)of the regulations implementing theVietnam Era Veterans’ ReadjustmentAssistance Act (VEVRAA)).Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency 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 20210

Phone: 202 693-0102TDD Phone: 202 693-1308Fax: 202 693-1304Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1215–AB23

2144. 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; EO11758; PL 97-306; 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 of 1998.The Act increases the current thresholdfor coverage from $10,000 to $25,000.The Act expands the existing definitionof Veterans, i.e., special disabledveterans and veterans of the VietnamEra, to include any other veterans whoserved on active duty during a war orin a campaign or expedition for whicha campaign badge has been authorized.The Act also requires the contractor toadd additional information to itsannual VETS-100 report to provide themaximum and minimum number ofemployees of such contractor’sworkforce during the period covered bythe report.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 03/00/01

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: 202 693-1304

Email: [email protected]: 1215–AB24

2145. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION ANDNONDISCRIMINATION OBLIGATIONSOF CONTRACTORS ANDSUBCONTRACTORS REGARDINGSPECIAL DISABLED VETERANS ANDVETERANS OF THE VIETNAM ERA(REVISED)Priority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 38 USC 4211; PL 94-502; PL 97-306; PL 102-484; 38 USC4212; PL 93-508,amended; PL 96-466;PL 101-237; EO 11758; PL 98-223; PL102-16; PL 102-127; PL 95-520; PL 105-339CFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-250 (Revision)Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: OFCCP proposes to amendthe regulations at 60-250.60(a)(3) toremove the obligation to visit anestablishment during a compliancecheck in order to enhance efficiency inresource allocation.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedSmall Entities Affected: NoGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency 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]: 1215–AB27

2146. GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS:NONDISCRIMINATION ANDAFFIRMATIVE ACTION OBLIGATIONS,EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246(ESA/OFCCP) (REVISED)Priority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: EO 11246, as amendedCFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-1 (Revision)Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: OFCCP proposes to amendthe regulations at 60-1.20(a)(3) to




remove the obligation to visit anestablishment during a compliancecheck in order to enhance efficiency inresource allocation.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 11/00/00


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

2147. LONGSHORE ACT MEDICALFEE SCHEDULE


Legal Authority: 33 USC 907(g); 33USC 939

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 702.301; 20 CFR702.406; 20 CFR 702.407; 20 CFR702.411; 20 CFR 702.413; 20 CFR702.414; 20 CFR 702.417; 20 CFR702.435; ...


Abstract: The Longshore and HarborWorkers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA)directs the Secretary of Labor toactively supervise the medical care andtreatment given to injured workers andto determine the necessity, character

and sufficiency of the care furnishedand to regulate the amounts charged bymedical providers for providing suchmedical services and supplies. Theproposed rule clarifies this authority,which is delegated to OWCP’s districtdirectors, and the procedure forchallenging its exercise. The proposedrule also provides that the recentexpansion of the OWCP Medical FeeSchedule to cover pharmacy andinpatient hospital care may be used todetermine the prevailing communityrate for such services under theLHWCA. Finally, the proposed ruleclarifies the circumstances under whicha doctor may not be selected to performan impartial medical examination.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 02/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Michael Niss,Director, Longshore and Harborworkers’Compensation, OWCP, Department ofLabor, Employment StandardsAdministration, Room C4315, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0038Fax: 202 693-1380RIN: 1215–AB30

2148. ∑ STOCK OPTIONS, STOCKAPPRECIATION RIGHTS, AND BONAFIDE EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASEPROGRAMS UNDER THE FAIR LABORSTANDARDS ACTPriority: Other SignificantLegal 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 toclarify 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 12/00/00


Small Entities Affected: Businesses,Organizations



RIN: 1215–AB31



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

2149. GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS:NONDISCRIMINATION ANDAFFIRMATIVE ACTION OBLIGATIONS,EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246(ESA/OFCCP)


RIN: 1215–AA01

2150. CHILD LABOR REGULATIONS,ORDERS, AND STATEMENTS OFINTERPRETATION (ESA/W-H)


RIN: 1215–AA09

2151. PROCEDURES FORPREDETERMINATION OF WAGERATES (29 CFR PART 1) AND LABORSTANDARDS PROVISIONSAPPLICABLE TO CONTRACTSCOVERING FEDERALLY FINANCEDAND ASSISTED CONSTRUCTION (29CFR PART 5)


RIN: 1215–AA94

2152. BLACK LUNG BENEFITS UNDERTHE FEDERAL COAL MINE SAFETYAND HEALTH ACT OF 1969, ASAMENDED



Legal Authority: 30 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 718; 20 CFR 722;20 CFR 725; 20 CFR 726; 20 CFR 727


Abstract: The Division of Coal MineWorkers’ Compensation reviewed itsexisting regulations, pursuant toExecutive Order 12866, with a goal ofeliminating outdated and unnecessaryrules and streamlining the processes.The result is a proposal to reviseexisting rules to facilitate the resolutionof claims through the informalconference; streamline the litigationprocess by encouraging the earlydevelopment and submission of

evidence; reduce costs; raise the dollarlimit for prior approval for medicalequipment; and rewrite existing rulesto make them more customer-oriented.

There will be no additionaladministrative costs associated withthese changes, but savings can beexpected through streamlining.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End03/24/97

NPRM CommentPeriod EndExtended to 8/22/97

05/24/97 62 FR 8201

Second NPRM 10/08/99 64 FR 54966Second NPRM

Comment PeriodExtended

11/18/99 64 FR 62997

Second NPRMComment PeriodEnd

01/06/00


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses


Agency Contact: James L. DeMarce,Director, Coal Mine Workers’Compensation, OWCP, Department ofLabor, Employment StandardsAdministration, Room C3520, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0046Fax: 202 693-1395

RIN: 1215–AA99

2153. LABOR CONDITIONAPPLICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTSFOR EMPLOYERS USINGNONIMMIGRANTS ON H-1B VISAS INSPECIALTY OCCUPATIONS AND ASFASHION MODELS


Legal Authority: 8 USC1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b); 8 USC 1182(n); 8USC 1184; 29 USC 49 et seq; PL 102-232

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 655, subparts H& I


Abstract: This proposed rule is arepublication for notice and publiccomment of various provisions of theDepartment’s final rule implementingprovisions of the Immigration andNationality Act as it relates to the

temporary employment in the UnitedStates of nonimmigrants admittedunder H-1B visas. As part of the DOLregulatory reinvention efforts,Regulations, 29 CFR part 507 whichduplicate 20 CFR part 655, subparts Hand I, have been removed from title 29.(See 61 FR 51013.) In addition,amendments are proposed toimplement the AmericanCompetitiveness and WorkforceImprovement Act of 1998 (Title IV,Public Law 105-277, October 21, 1998;112 Stat. 2681).Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End11/30/95


Period End02/04/99

Interim Final Rule 11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: FederalAgency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AB09

2154. MINIMUM WAGE ANDOVERTIME VIOLATIONS—CIVILMONEY PENALTIES (29 CFR 578);CHILD LABOR VIOLATIONS—CIVILMONEY PENALTIES (29 CFR 579);ADJUSTMENT OF CIVIL MONEYPENALTIES FOR INFLATIONPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 216(e); PL101-410; PL 104-134CFR Citation: 29 CFR 578; 29 CFR 579Legal 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 or



DOL—ESA Final Rule Stage

willful 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 End01/27/99


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: Federal,State, Local, TribalAgency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AB20

2155. SERVICE CONTRACT ACTEXEMPTION FOR CERTAINCOMMERCIAL SERVICE CONTRACTS


Legal Authority: 41 USC 351; 41 USC38; 41 USC 39; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 4.123(e)


Abstract: This rule proposes to exemptfrom prevailing wage, fringe benefit andrelated labor standards requirements ofthe McNamara-O’Hara Service ContractAct (SCA) certain types of commercialservice contracts meeting prescribedcriteria pursuant to Section 4(b) of theSCA. The exemption has beenrequested by the Office of FederalProcurement Policy (OFPP) followingits review of a now withdrawn finalrule issued in the Federal AcquisitionRegulation (FAR) that previouslyexempted all subcontracts forcommercial services from the SCAbased on the Federal AcquisitionStreamlining Act.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 07/26/00 65 FR 45943Interim Final Rule 07/26/00Interim Final Rule

Effective08/25/00



Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal


RIN: 1215–AB26

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

2156. APPLICATION OF THE FAIRLABOR STANDARDS ACT TODOMESTIC SERVICEPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal 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 76CFR Citation: 29 CFR 552Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 anexemption 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 that theseexemptions are applicable to third-party employers or temporary helpagencies only where the domesticservice worker is jointly employed by

the third-party employer or temporaryhelp agency and the family orhousehold using their services (58 FR69310). After reviewing the publiccomments, the Department adoptedtechnical changes to update theregulations, including a revisionnecessitated by amendments to title IIof the Social Security Act under PublicLaw 103-387 (Social Security DomesticEmployment Reform Act) 10/22/94, (see60 FR 46766) and reopened the publiccomment period on proposed revisionsaffecting third-party employers (section552.109).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End02/28/94

NPRM Second 09/08/95 60 FR 46797Final Rule 09/08/95 60 FR 46766Next Action Undetermined



Federalism: Undetermined

Agency Contact: John R. Fraser,Deputy Administrator (WHD),Department of Labor, EmploymentStandards Administration, RoomS3502, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-0051Fax: 202 693-1432RIN: 1215–AA82

2157. ASSESSMENT ANDCOLLECTION OF USER FEESPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: PL 97-470; 29 USC211; 29 USC 214; 52 Stat 1066, sec 11;63 Stat 910, sec 9; 29 USC 211(d); 80Stat 843 to 844, sec 501 and 602; 96Stat 2583; 29 USC 1801 to 1872;Secretary’s Order No. 1-93 (58 FR21190); PL 99-603, sec 210A(f); 100 Stat3359; 8 USC 1161(f); 52 Stat 1068, sec11 and 14; 75 Stat 74, sec 11CFR Citation: 29 CFR 500.45; 29 CFR500.52; 29 CFR 519.3; 29 CFR 519.13;29 CFR 530.4; 29 CFR 530.102Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Title V of the IndependentOffices Appropriations Act of 1952,often referred to as the ‘‘user fee



DOL—ESA Long-Term Actions

statute,’’ and the Departments of Labor,Health and Human Services, andEducation and Related AgenciesAppropriation Act of 1995 (PL 103-333), authorize the Department toestablish and collect user fees torecover the costs of providing certainservices that are required by law andwithout which, the recipients of theservices would not legally be allowedto engage in particular employmentpractices. The services for which userfees are being considered includeprocessing applications and issuingfarm labor contractor certificates ofregistration under the Migrant and

Seasonal Agricultural WorkerProtection Act; processing applicationsand issuing certificates authorizingemployers to employ certain studentsat special minimum wages undersection 14(b) of the Fair LaborStandards Act; and processingapplications and issuing certificatesauthorizing employers to employhomeworkers under section 11(d) of theFair Labor Standards Act.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM To Be Determined




RIN: 1215–AB06

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

2158. STANDARDS FOR WAIVERSUNDER SECTION 503 OF THEREHABILITATION ACT


Legal Authority: 29 USC 706; 29 USC793, as amended by PL 99-506; PL 100-630; PL 100-259; PL 101-336; PL 102-569; EO 11758

CFR Citation: 41 CFR 60-741


Abstract: OFCCP has issued regulationsthat set forth standards for waivers(from provisions of section 503 of theRehabilitation Act) sought by Federal

contractors for facilities that they deemtotally separate from and not involvedin Government contract work. OFCCPis required to issue these regulationsby the 1992 Rehabilitation Actamendments.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End04/15/96

Final Action 07/20/00 65 FR 45174Final Action Effective 08/21/00



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–AA84

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

2159. LABOR CERTIFICATIONPROCESS FOR THE PERMANENTEMPLOYMENT OF ALIENS IN THEUNITED STATESPriority: Other SignificantReinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: INA 212(a)(5)(A)CFR Citation: 20 CFR 656Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: The Department of Labor(DOL) is currently re-engineering thelabor certification process that is setforth in DOL regulations at 20 CFR 656.DOL’s goals are to make fundamental

changes and refinements that will (a)better serve customers, (b) streamlinethe process, (c) improve effectiveness,and (d) save resources. The re-engineering effort involves consultationthroughout the process with sponsors,stakeholders, State partners, andoutside interest groups to solicit ideasand suggestions for change.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00


Government Levels Affected: Federal,State

Agency Contact: Dale Ziegler, Chief,Division of Foreign Labor Certification,

Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW., RoomS4231, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 219-5263Fax: 202 208-5844Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AA66

2160. FEDERAL-STATEUNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATIONPROGRAM; UNEMPLOYMENTINSURANCE PERFORMANCE SYSTEM


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden or



DOL—ETA Proposed Rule Stage

duplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: 42 USC 503(a)(1); 42USC 503(a)(6); 42 USC 503(b); 42 USC1302CFR Citation: 20 CFR 602; 20 CFR 640;20 CFR 650; 20 CFR 609.6(f); 20 CFR614.6(f); 20 CFR 614.7(c)Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: This regulation will formallyestablish a comprehensive system forhelping ensure continuousimprovement in UI operationalperformance. It will enunciate as thesystem’s building blocks principles forFederal and State cooperation, key

nationwide performance measures,criteria distinguishing satisfactory fromunsatisfactory performance, an annualplanning process, and actions whichthe Department may take when a Statefails to perform satisfactorily. Thisregulation will be as brief and generalas possible; detail and measures,standards, criteria and plans will becontained in implementing handbooks.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 01/16/97 62 FR 2543ANPRM Comment

Period End03/17/97

NPRM 01/00/01


Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sandra T. King, Chief,Division of Performance Review,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, Room S4321,200 Constitution Avenue NW, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5223Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB10

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

2161. TRADE ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE FOR WORKERS—IMPLEMENTATION OF 1988AMENDMENTS

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

Legal Authority: 19 USC 2320



Abstract: The final rule implementingthe 1988 Amendments to the TAAprogram was published in the FederalRegister on January 6, 1994. Althoughpublished as final, comments wererequested on several material changesbeing made in the final rule whichdiffer 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




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 20210

Phone: 202 693-3555

RIN: 1205–AB05

2162. TRADE ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE FOR WORKERS—TRANSITIONAL ADJUSTMENTASSISTANCE NAFTA-TAA


Legal Authority: PL 103-182, title V



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 chapter2, 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

NPRM 01/17/95 60 FR 3472

Action Date FR Cite


03/20/95 60 FR 3472




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: 202 693-3555

RIN: 1205–AB07

2163. WELFARE-TO-WORK (WTW)GRANTS


RIN: 1205–AB15

2164. FEDERAL-STATEUNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION(UC) PROGRAM; CONFIDENTIALITYAND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATIONIN STATE UC RECORDS


Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302 (a); 42USC 503; 42 USC 1320b-7; 26 USC ch23; Secretary’s Orders 4-75 and 14-75





DOL—ETA Final Rule Stage

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 UnemploymentCompensation program. The interimfinal rule modifies and expands theregulations implementing the Incomeand Eligibility Verification System(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.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: StateAdditional 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,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW, C4518, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5201Email: [email protected]: 1205–AB18

2165. LABOR CERTIFICATIONPROCESS FOR THE PERMANENTEMPLOYMENT OF ALIENS IN THEUNITED STATES; REFILING OFAPPLICATIONSPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 8 USC 1182(a)(5)(A)CFR Citation: 20 CFR 656Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: This rulemaking wouldamend the regulations relating to the

permanent 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 employmentcertification 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 End08/25/00





Agency Contact: Dale Ziegler, Chief,Division of Foreign Labor Certification,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW., RoomS4231, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 219-5263Fax: 202 208-5844Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB25

2166. ATTESTATIONS BY FACILITIESTEMPORARILY EMPLOYING H-1CNONIMMIGRANT ALIENS ASREGISTERED NURSES


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. 1312

CFR 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 51137Interim Final Rule

Comment PeriodEnd

09/21/00

Interim Final RuleEffective

09/21/00




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: 202 693-0071

RIN: 1205–AB27



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

2167. 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.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined




Agency Contact: Eric Johnson,Director, Office of Career TransitionAssistance, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room S4231, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-0316Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AA37

2168. DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENTASSISTANCE PROGRAM,AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS


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



Abstract: During the past few years,several disasters have highlighted thecomplexity of interpreting the presentregulations. In addition, otherprovisions of the current regulations areperceived to be unduly restrictiveand/or result in perceived inequities insome situations. To correct a seriousproblem with the monetarycomputation provisions the Departmentpublished an interim final rule on May11, 1995. In addition, an ANPRM waspublished on December 8, 1994,soliciting comments for other changes.In the meantime the administration’sFederal Government reinvention effortwas initiated to, among other matters,make comunication more

understandable with the public.Therefore, this NPRM will completelyrevise part 625 to utilize a plainlanguage format to correct and implifycomplex provisions and addamendments due to law changesaffecting the disaster unemploymentassistance program.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End02/06/95

Interim Final Rule 05/11/95 60 FR 25560NPRM To Be Determined

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: Federal,StateAgency Contact: Robert Gillham, TeamLeader, Federal Programs Team,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, 200Constitution Avenue NW, Washington,DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5616RIN: 1205–AB02

2169. ESTABLISHMENT OF FEES FORIMMIGRATION PROGRAMSADMINISTERED BY THEEMPLOYMENT AND TRAININGADMINISTRATIONPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: Not yet determinedCFR Citation: Not Yet DeterminedLegal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 theProgram Operations Account in DOL’sEmployment and TrainingAdministration (ETA).Timetable: Next Action UndeterminedRegulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: State,LocalAdditional Information: Funding ofETA immigration programs has been

reduced by 39 percent since FY 1995.The fee proceeds would be used tooffset the costs of administering thealien labor certification program.However, in each of Fiscal Years 1999and 2000 regular appropriations of $41million would be required in additionto user fees to work off a large backlogof applications already in the pipelineand future growing backlogs createdprimarily by appropriations reductionin FY 1996 and 1997.


RIN: 1205–AB14

2170. INDIAN AND NATIVE AMERICANWELFARE-TO-WORK PROGRAM


Legal Authority: 42 USC612(a)(3)(c)(iii), The Social SecurityAct, as amended; PL 106-113, DivisionB, 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.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective04/01/98 63 FR 15985

Interim Final RuleComment PeriodEnd

06/01/98

Final Action To Be Determined



DOL—ETA Long-Term Actions


Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Additional Information: Congress haschanged eligibility criteria. A final rulewill be published in conjunction withthe State programs.

Agency Contact: Gregory Gross,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, Room N4641,200 Constitution Avenue NW, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8502Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB16

2171. LABOR CERTIFICATION ANDPETITION PROCESS FOR THETEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OFNONIMMIGRANT ALIENS INAGRICULTURE IN THE UNITEDSTATES; MODIFICATION OF FEESTRUCTUREPriority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 8 USC1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a); 8 USC 1184; 8USC 1188; 29 USC 49 et seq; 8 CFR103.1(f)(iii)(j); 8 CFR 103.1(f)(iii)(w); 8CFR 214.2(h)(5); 8 CFR 214.2(h)(11); 8CFR 214.2(h)(12)



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,while the petition fee is a processingfee.Concurrently with the publication ofthis proposed rule, the Department ispublishing an interim final rule witha request for comments setting forth theprocedures and requirements forsubmission and processing of aconsolidated Application forTemporary Agricultural LaborCertification and H-2A Petition (FormETA 9079).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End09/18/00





Agency Contact: James Norris,Director, Division of Foreign LaborCertification, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room N4456, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5263Fax: 202 208-5844Email: [email protected]

Dale Ziegler, Chief, Division of ForeignLabor Certification, Department ofLabor, Employment and TrainingAdministration, 200 ConstitutionAvenue NW., Room S4231, FPBuilding, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5263Fax: 202 208-5844Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB24

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

2172. WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTOF 1998


Legal Authority: Workforce InvestmentAct of 1998, sec 189(a); 506(c); 29 USC2939(a); 20 USC 9276(c)

CFR Citation: 20 CFR 660 to 671; 20CFR 652

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory,February 7, 1999, Interim Final Rule.Final, Statutory, December 31, 1999.

Abstract: The Workforce InvestmentAct of 1998 was signed into law byPresident Clinton on August 7, 1998.Titles I and III, and V of the Act fallunder the purview of the Employmentand Training Administration. Title Vfalls under the purview of ETA as wellas the Department of Education. TheAct makes significant changes in theway this country’s employment and

training programs do business. The Actwill ensure that Americans have theinformation and training they need toqualify for good jobs and successfullymanage their careers. The interim finalregulations, final regulations, and otherguidance will focus on providingmaximum local flexibility. Guidanceand regulations will reflect minimalamplification of the law and willprovide further information orclarification as needed to make theprogram operational. Reportingrequirements will assure programintegrity and provide timelyinformation for tracking performance.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective05/17/99 64 FR 18662

Action Date FR Cite


07/14/99 64 FR 18662



Government Levels Affected: Federal,State, Local, Tribal

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

Agency Contact: Eric Johnson,Director, Office of Career TransitionAssistance, Department of Labor,Employment and TrainingAdministration, Room S4231, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-0316



DOL—ETA Completed Actions

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1205–AB20

2173. BIRTH AND ADOPTIONUNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION


Legal Authority: 42 USC 1302(a); 42USC 503(a)(2) and (5); Secretary’s OrderNo. 4-75 (40 FR 18515); Secretary’sOrder No. 14-75 (November 12, 1975);26 USC 3306(h); 26 USC 3304(a)(1) and(4)



Abstract: The Department of Laborplans to issue a final rule to create,by regulation, the opportunity for theState agencies that administer theUnemployment Compensation (UC)program to pay, under a voluntaryexperimental program, UC to parentswho take time off from employmentafter the birth or placement foradoption of a child. This regulationwill permit interested States toexperiment with methods for allowingthe use of the UC program for thispurpose.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End02/12/00




Government Levels Affected: StateAgency Contact: Gerard Hildebrand,Chief Division of Legislation,Department of Labor, Employment andTraining Administration, C-4512, FPBldg, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-5201Fax: 202 219-8506RIN: 1205–AB21

2174. LABOR CERTIFICATION ANDPETITION PROCESS FOR THETEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT OFNONIMMIGRANT ALIENS INAGRICULTURE IN THE UNITEDSTATES; DELEGATION OFAUTHORITY TO ADJUDICATE H-2APETITIONSPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 8 USC1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(a); 8 USC 1184; 8USC 1188; 29 USC 49 et seq; 8 CFR103.1(f)(iii)(j); 8 CFR 103.1(f)(iii)(w); 8CFR 214.2(h)(5); 8 CFR 214.2(h)(11); 8CFR 214.2(h)(12)CFR Citation: 8 CFR 655Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: This rule amends theEmployment and TrainingAdministration (ETA) regulations toimplement the delegation of authorityto adjudicate petitions for temporarynonimmigrant agricultural workers (H-2A’s) from the Department of Justice,Immigration and Naturalization Service(INS), to the United States Departmentof Labor (DOL). Among theimplementation measures is a newform, Application for Temporary

Agricultural Labor Certification and H-2A Petition. The rulemaking furtherimplements the delegation of authority,from INS to DOL, to hear appeals ondeterminations and to revoke petitionapprovals. The rule does not affect INSauthority to make determinations atport-of-entry of an alien’s admissibilityto the United States, to makedeterminations of an alien’s eligibilityfor change of nonimmigrant status, orto make determinations of an alien’seligibility for extension of stay. Thisrule streamlines existing H-2Aprocesses to make it more efficient forpetitioners to seek the admission oftemporary agricultural workers withoutdiminishing the workplace rights ofU.S. workers or foreign workersadmitted under the program.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Final Rule 07/13/00 65 FR 43538Final Rule Effective 11/13/00





RIN: 1205–AB23

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

2175. ∑ BONDING RULES UNDER THEEMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOMESECURITY ACT OF 1974 (SECTION610 REVIEW)


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1112



Abstract: PWBA is undertaking areview of the temporary bonding rulesunder section 412 of ERISA (29 CFRPart 2580) in accordance with the

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. To facilitate review, PWBAinvites interested persons to submitwritten comments on these matters.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 12/00/00Comment Period End 03/00/01End Review 12/00/01




Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200



DOL—PWBA Prerule Stage

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-7461RIN: 1210–AA82

2176. ∑ REQUESTS FORENFORCEMENT PURSUANT TOSECTION 502(B)(2) (SECTION 610REVIEW)Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.Unfunded Mandates: UndeterminedLegal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1132(b)(2)CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2560.502-1Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: PWBA is undertaking areview of its regulation relating torequests for enforcement pursuant tosection 502(b)(2) of ERISA (29 CFR2560.502-1) 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 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. To facilitate review, PWBAinvites interested persons to submitwritten comments on these matters.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneFederalism: UndeterminedAgency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210

Phone: 202 219-7461RIN: 1210–AA83

2177. ∑ CIVIL PENALTIES UNDERERISA SECTION 502(C)(2) (SECTION610 REVIEW)Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.Unfunded Mandates: UndeterminedLegal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1132(c)(2)CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2570.60 to2570.71Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: PWBA is undertaking areview of its regulations on civilpenalties under section 502(c)(2) ofERISA (29 CFR 2560.502(c)(2) 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. To facilitatereview, PWBA invites interestedpersons to submit written comments onthese matters.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneFederalism: UndeterminedAgency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-7461RIN: 1210–AA84

2178. ∑ PROCEDURES FOR THEASSESSMENT OF CIVIL PENALTIESUNDER ERISA SECTION 502(C)(2)(SECTION 610 REVIEW)


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

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2570.1 et seq.


Abstract: PWBA is undertaking areview of 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. To facilitatereview, PWBA invites interestedpersons to submit written comments onthese matters.

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: 202 219-7461

RIN: 1210–AA85



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

2179. DEFINITION OF COLLECTIVEBARGAINING AGREEMENT (ERISASECTION 3(40))Priority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 1002(40)CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2510.3-40Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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. The Department isdeveloping a revised proposal utilizingthe negotiated rulemaking process.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period Extended to11/16/95

09/29/95 60 FR 50508


10/02/95

Notice EstablishingNegotiatedRulemakingAdvisory Committee

09/22/98 63 FR 50542

Second NPRM 11/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: YesSmall Entities Affected: GovernmentalJurisdictionsGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedFederalism: 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: 202 219-8671

RIN: 1210–AA48

2180. RULEMAKING RELATING TONOTICE REQUIREMENTS FORCONTINUATION OF HEALTH CARECOVERAGE

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined




Abstract: This rulemaking will provideguidance concerning the notificationrequirements pertaining to continuationcoverage under the EmployeeRetirement Income Security Act of 1974(ERISA). Section 606 of ERISA requiresthat group health plans provideemployees notification of thecontinuation coverage provisions of theplan and imposes notificationobligations upon plan administrators,employers, employees, and qualifiedbeneficiaries relating to certainqualifying events.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End11/24/97

NPRM 06/00/01



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: 202 219-7461

RIN: 1210–AA60

2181. 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

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2590.702


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 ofthe 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 will contain additionalregulatory interim guidance underHIPAA’s nondiscrimination provisions.In addition, the rulemaking willcontain proposed guidance on bonafide wellness programs.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Comment PeriodEnd

07/07/97

NPRM 12/00/00Second Interim Final

Rule12/00/00



DOL—PWBA Proposed Rule Stage



Additional Information: This item isbeing split off from RIN 210-AA54 inorder to provide focused guidance onsection 702 of ERISA, which prohibitsdiscrimination against participants andbeneficiaries by group health plans andhealth insurance issuers based onhealth status.

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

Phone: 202 219-7006RIN: 1210–AA77

2182. REGULATION EXEMPTINGCERTAIN BROKER-DEALER ANDINVESTMENT ADVISERS FROMBONDING REQUIREMENTSPriority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.





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 02/00/01



Agency Contact: George M. Holmes,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 523-8521

RIN: 1210–AA80

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

2183. REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTINGTHE HEALTH CARE ACCESS,PORTABILITY AND RENEWABILITYPROVISIONS OF THE HEALTHINSURANCE PORTABILITY ANDACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1996


RIN: 1210–AA54

2184. AMENDMENT OF SUMMARYPLAN DESCRIPTION AND RELATEDERISA REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENTSTATUTORY CHANGES IN THEHEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITYAND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 1996


RIN: 1210–AA55

2185. AMENDMENTS TO EMPLOYEEBENEFIT PLAN CLAIMSPROCEDURES REGULATION


RIN: 1210–AA61

2186. HEALTH CARE STANDARDSFOR MOTHERS AND NEWBORNS



Legal Authority: 29 USC 1181 (PL 104-204, 110 Stat 2935); 29 USC 1135; 29USC 1194



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 hospitalstays 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 09/00/01



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: 202 219-7006RIN: 1210–AA63

2187. REPORTING REQUIREMENTSFOR MEWAS PROVIDING MEDICALCARE BENEFITSPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1021(g)(h) (PL 104-191; 110 Stat 1952);29 USC 1194CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 made



DOL—PWBA Final Rule Stage

to 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 subtitleB 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 06/00/01



Agency Contact: Amy Turner, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room C5331, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-7006

RIN: 1210–AA64

2188. ELIMINATION OF FILINGREQUIREMENTS FOR SUMMARYPLAN DESCRIPTIONS


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will eliminateexisting text in the CFR.

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 of

Labor. Under the amendments planadministrators must continue to furnishparticipants and beneficiaries withcopies of these documents. Separaterulemakings (RIN: 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 End10/04/99


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Lisa M. Fields,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8671RIN: 1210–AA66

2189. REQUIREMENT TO FURNISHPLAN DOCUMENTS UPON REQUESTBY THE SECRETARY OF LABORPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 1024; 29 USC1135; PL 105-34, sec 1503CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.104a-8Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 End10/04/99


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Lisa M. Fields,Pension Law Specialist, Department of

Labor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8671

RIN: 1210–AA67

2190. 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 End10/04/99




Agency Contact: Lisa M. Fields,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8671

RIN: 1210–AA68




2191. AMENDMENTS TO SUMMARYPLAN DESCRIPTION REGULATIONS


RIN: 1210–AA69

2192. 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 End03/29/99





Agency Contact: Eric A. Raps, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8521

RIN: 1210–AA71

2193. NATIONAL MEDICAL SUPPORTNOTICE


Legal Authority: PL 105-200, sec401(b); 29 USC 1135; 29 USC 1169


Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, May16, 1999, Interim Final Rule.Final, Statutory, November 15, 2000.

Abstract: The purpose of thisrulemaking is to develop regulationswhich establish a model qualifiedmedical child support order for use byState child support agencies to facilitatethe extension of health care coverageto children under their jurisdiction.This initiative is mandated by the ChildSupport Performance and Incentive Actof 1998 (CSPIA), P.L. 105-200.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 11/15/99 64 FR 62054Comment Period End 02/14/00Final Action 10/00/00





Agency Contact: David J. Lurie,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8671

RIN: 1210–AA72

2194. SOFT DOLLAR (INTERPRETIVEBULLETIN)


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

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2509.98-2


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

Interpretive Bulletin 06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency Contact: David J. Lurie,Pension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8671RIN: 1210–AA74

2195. RULEMAKING RELATING TOTHE WOMEN’S HEALTH ANDCANCER RIGHTS ACT OF 1998Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.Legal Authority: 29 USC 1185; PL 105-277; 112 Stat 2681; 29 USC 1135; 29USC 1194CFR Citation: Not Yet DeterminedLegal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 whoelect 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


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency Contact: Mila Kofman, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room C5331, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210




Phone: 202 219-7006

RIN: 1210–AA75

2196. VOLUNTARY FIDUCIARYCORRECTION PROGRAM





Abstract: Section 409 of ERISAprovides that an employee benefit planfiduciary who breaches any of theresponsibilities, obligations, or dutiesimposed upon him or her by part 4of title I of ERISA shall be personallyliable to make good to such plan anylosses to the plan resulting from eachsuch breach, and to restore to such planany profits that such fiduciary mayhave made through use of assets of the

plan. The Department has the authorityunder section 504 of ERISA to conductinvestigations to deter and correctviolations of title I of ERISA and undersection 502(a)(2) and 502(a)(5) to bringcivil actions to enforce the provisionsthereof. Section 502(l) of ERISArequires the assessment of a civilpenalty in an amount equal to 20percent of the applicable recoveryamount with respect to any breach offiduciary responsibility under (or otherviolation of) part 4 by a fiduciary.

To encourage and facilitate voluntarycorrection of certain breaches offiduciary responsibility, PWBA isadopting a Voluntary FiduciaryCorrection Program (VFC Program).Under this VFC Program, plan officialswill be relieved of the possibility ofinvestigation and civil action by theDepartment and imposition of civilpenalties, to the extent that plan

officials satisfy the conditions forcorrecting breaches described in theprogram.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Enforcement Policy 03/15/00 65 FR 14164Comment Period End 05/15/00Final Action 03/00/01



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: 202 219-8671

RIN: 1210–AA76

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

2197. 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 End07/17/88

Next Action Undetermined



Agency Contact: Paul Mannina, StaffAttorney, Plan Benefits SecurityDivision, Department of Labor, Pensionand Welfare Benefits Administration,Room N4611, 200 Constitution AvenueNW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210

Phone: 202 219-4592RIN: 1210–AA15

2198. CIVIL PENALTIES UNDER ERISASECTION 502(1)Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.Unfunded Mandates: UndeterminedLegal Authority: 29 USC 1132CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2570.80(Procedural); 29 CFR 2560.502(l)-l(Substantive)Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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, aswell as a proposed rule that defines thefollowing pivotal terms contained insection 502(l): ‘‘applicable recoveryamount,’’ ‘‘breach of fiduciaryresponsibility or violation,’’ ‘‘settlement

agreement,’’ and ‘‘court order.’’ TheDepartment intends to finalize thesetwo regulations.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

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

Period End08/20/90 55 FR 25284


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency 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: 202 219-8610RIN: 1210–AA37

2199. MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITSPARITYPriority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.Unfunded Mandates: UndeterminedLegal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1182 (PL 104-204; 110 Stat 2944); 29USC 1194



DOL—PWBA Long-Term Actions

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2590Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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: NoGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAdditional 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, RoomC5331, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-7006

RIN: 1210–AA62

2200. INDIVIDUAL BENEFITSREPORTING REQUIREMENTS FORDEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS



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

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.105-1


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.




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: 202 219-8521

RIN: 1210–AA65

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

2201. REVISION OF THE FORM 5500SERIES AND IMPLEMENTING ANDRELATED REGULATIONS UNDER THEEMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOMESECURITY ACT OF 1974 (ERISA)



Legal Authority: 29 USC 1021; 29 USC1059; 29 USC 1135; 29 USC 1166; 29USC 1168; 29 USC 1022; 29 USC 1023;29 USC 1024; 29 USC 1025; 29 USC1026; 29 USC 1027; 29 USC 1029; 29USC 1030



Abstract: Under title I of ERISA, titleIV of ERISA, and the Internal RevenueCode, as amended, pension and otheremployee benefit plans are generallyrequired to file returns/reports annuallyconcerning, among other things, thefinancial condition and operations of

the plan. These annual reportingrequirements are satisfied generally byfiling the Form 5500 Series inaccordance with its instructions andrelated regulations. The Department ofLabor, IRS, and PBGC conducted acomprehensive review of the annualreturn/report forms to streamline theinformation required to be reported andthe methods by which such informationis filed and processed.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Proposed FormsRevisions

09/03/97 62 FR 46556

Proposed FormsComment PeriodEnd

11/03/97

NPRM ImplementingRelated Regulations

12/10/98 63 FR 68370


02/08/99

Final Action Forms 02/02/00 65 FR 5026Final Action

ImplementingRelated Regulations

04/19/00 65 FR 21068

Final Action Effective 05/19/00




Additional Information: Public hearingheld November 17, 1997. Hearingcomment period ended 12/03/97.

Agency Contact: Eric A. Raps, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8521

RIN: 1210–AA52

2202. SMALL PENSION PLANSECURITY AMENDMENTS


Legal Authority: 29 USC 1135; 29 USC1024; 29 USC 1191c; Secretary ofLabor’s Order No. 1-87, April 21,1987

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2520.104-41; 29CFR 2520.104.46



DOL—PWBA Completed Actions


Abstract: This initiative would amendthe conditions under which smallpension plans (i.e., those with fewerthan 100 participants) will be exemptfrom the requirements of section103(a)(3)(A) to engage an independentqualified public accountant and toinclude the report of such accountantas part of the plan’s annual report.Specifically, the amendment wouldcondition the availability of theexemption on the plan meeting certainadditional conditions regarding planassets being held by a regulatedfinancial institution and relatedimprovements in fidelity bonding anddisclosures to plan participants andbeneficiaries. This initiative is beingundertaken to improve security andaccountability with respect to assets ofsmall employee pension benefit plans.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/01/99 64 FR 67436Final Action 10/19/00 65 FR 62957Final Action Effective 12/18/00




Additional Information: Amendmentsmade by this rule are applicable as ofthe first plan year beginning after April17, 2001.

Agency Contact: John Keene, PensionLaw Specialist, Department of Labor,Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, Room N5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-8521

RIN: 1210–AA73

2203. AMENDMENTS REGARDINGALLOCATION OF FIDUCIARYRESPONSIBILITY; FEDERALRETIREMENT THRIFT INVESTMENTBOARD


Legal Authority: 5 USC 8477(e)(1)(E);Secretary of Labor’s Order No. 1-87

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 2584.8477(e)-2


Abstract: This rulemaking amended theDepartment’s regulation regarding theallocation of fiduciary responsibility by

the Executive Director of the FederalRetirement Thrift Investment Board toprovide for the allocation to investmentmanagers of fiduciary responsibility fortwo new investment funds, the SmallCapitalization Index Stock InvestmentFund and the International Stock IndexInvestment Fund. These amendmentsalso update the definition of investmentmanager and make other miscellaneouschanges to 29 Part 2584.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Direct Final Rule 05/30/00 65 FR 34393Comment Period End 06/29/00Final Rule Effective 07/14/00




Agency Contact: Rudy Nuissl, SeniorPension Law Specialist, Department ofLabor, Pension and Welfare BenefitsAdministration, N-5669, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-7461

RIN: 1210–AA79

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

2204. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOCOAL MINE DUST (LOWERINGEXPOSURE LIMIT)





Abstract: In 1996 the Secretary ofLabor’s Advisory Committee on theElimination of Pneumoconiosis AmongCoal Miners recommended that weconsider lowering the coal dustpermissible exposure limit (PEL). In1995, the National Institute forOccupational Safety and Health issueda Criteria Document in which theyrecommended that the respirable coalmine dust PEL be cut in half. We areconsidering rulemaking to lower thecoal dust PEL because miners continueto be at risk of developing dust-inducedoccupational lung disease.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 01/00/01




Agency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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–AB08

2205. MINE RESCUE TEAMS




CFR Citation: 30 CFR 49Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: We are assessing our currentregulations to identify areas where wemight increase flexibility and provideincreased safety for miners. Weanticipate publishing an ANPRM tosolicit ideas from the miningcommunity.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 02/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AB20



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

2206. METAL/NONMETALIMPOUNDMENTSPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 30 USC 811CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Water, sediment, and slurryimpoundments for metal and nonmetalmining and milling operations arelocated throughout the country.Some are within flood range of homesand well-traveled roads. Impoundmentfailures could endanger lives and causeproperty damage. The proposed rulewill address proper design,construction, and other safety issues.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: YesSmall Entities Affected: BusinessesGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AA83

2207. SURFACE HAULAGEPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 30 USC 811CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57;30 CFR 77Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Approximately thirty percentof the fatal surface mining accidentswhich occurred during the past 4 yearsinvolved large haulage vehicles, over-the-road trucks, front-end loaders, andsimilar equipment. The proposed rulewill set safety requirements for restraintsystems, lighting, and blind areas forthis equipment for both coal and metaland nonmetal surface mines andsurface areas of underground mines.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 07/30/98 63 FR 40800NPRM 03/00/01


Small Entities Affected: BusinessesGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AA93

2208. IMPROVING AND ELIMINATINGREGULATIONSPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantUnfunded Mandates: UndeterminedReinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: 30 USC 811; 30 USC957CFR Citation: 30 CFR 1 to 199Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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

03/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: YesSmall Entities Affected: Businesses



RIN: 1219–AA98

2209. ELECTRICAL STANDARDS FORMETAL AND NONMETAL MINESPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 30 USC 811CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Electricity is used widely inthe mining industry to power miningequipment, transport material andpeople, and for other purposes. Ourrecords show that accidents occur frominadequate or improper equipmentgrounding. We are consideringrulemaking to specify the properequipment grounding.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AB01

2210. RESPIRABLE CRYSTALLINESILICA STANDARDPriority: Substantive, Nonsignificant


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


Abstract: Our current regulations setlimits for respirable coal dust whencrystalline silica is present. We are alsoaware of many conditions that resultin worker overexposure to silica. Thisoverexposure will result in thedevelopment of silicosis in someworkers. Therefore, we are currentlyevaluating recommendations of theSecretary of Labor’s AdvisoryCommittee on the Elimination ofPneumoconiosis Among Coal MineWorkers to determine which one, orcombination of recommendations, willmost effectivly reduce workeroverexposure to silica. We areconsidering rulemaking to implementrelevant recommendations.



DOL—MSHA Proposed Rule Stage

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 02/00/01





RIN: 1219–AB12

2211. SAFETY STANDARDS FORSELF-CONTAINED SELF-RESCUEDEVICES IN COAL ANDMETAL/NONMETAL UNDERGROUNDMINES





Abstract: Self-contained self-rescuers(SCSR) are closed circuit breathingapparatuses that provide a source ofoxygen and greatly increase a miner’schance of surviving a mine emergencyinvolving an irrespirable atmosphere.The mining industry has had recentexperiences with SCSRs which did notfunction properly or were not donnedproperly, rendering them ineffective.We are considering a rule to limit theservice life of the devices, address theappropriate inspection of SCSRs andthe adequacy of training. In addition,we may propose to apply SCSRstandards to metal and nonmetal mines.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 07/07/99 64 FR 36632NPRM 03/00/01




Additional Information: Thisrulemaking includes 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

2212. ∑ SURGE AND STORAGE PILES





Abstract: MSHA has documented anumber of accidents involving minersoperating vehicles and equipment onsurge piles. The current standard onlyprohibits persons from walking orstanding on or around surge or storagepiles where a hazard may exist. We areconsidering rulemaking to expand theexisting standard to address vehiclesand equipment.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 03/00/01





RIN: 1219–AB22

2213. ∑ ESCAPEWAYS AND REFUGES





Abstract: This standard would reviseand clarify an existing standard thatrequires underground metal and

nonmetal mines to have at least twoseparate exits to the surface. Becauseof the physical limits in undergroundmines, fire, massive ground fall,methane ignition, inundation, forexample, could result in multipleentrapment deaths. A secondescapeway increases the likelihood thatminers will not be trappedunderground during an emergency ifone escape route is cut off.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedSmall Entities Affected: BusinessesGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AB23

2214. ∑ ACCIDENT INVESTIGATIONHEARING PROCEDURESPriority: Info./Admin./OtherLegal Authority: 30 USC 957CFR Citation: Not Yet DeterminedLegal Deadline: NoneAbstract: The rule is designed toclarify and codify accidentinvestigation hearing procedures. Therule addresses all hearings convened bythe Secretary of Labor for the purposeof investigating any accident or otheroccurrence relating to the health orsafety of miners pursuant to section103(b) of the Federal Mine Safety andHealth Act of 1977.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 01/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoSmall Entities Affected: NoGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,Director, Office of Standards,Department of Labor, Mine Safety andHealth Administration, Room 631, 4015Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203



DOL—MSHA Proposed Rule Stage

Phone: 703 235-1910Fax: 703 235-5551

Email: [email protected]: 1219–AB26

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

2215. HAZARD COMMUNICATION





Abstract: Today’s complex miningenvironment subjects miners to manyhazards such as from wastes burned asfuel supplements at cement kilns andfrom the many chemicals brought ontomine property. The rule as proposedwould provide miners with the meansto receive necessary information on thehazards of chemicals to which they areexposed and the actions necessary toprotect them from such hazards. Itwould be consistent with OSHA’s ruleto the extent appropriate.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End07/31/88


Period End01/31/92

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

Effective10/03/00


11/17/00






RIN: 1219–AA47

2216. DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER(EXPOSURE OF UNDERGROUNDCOAL MINERS)


RIN: 1219–AA74

2217. LONGWALL EQUIPMENT(INCLUDING HIGH-VOLTAGE)






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 workarea.

Highly productive longwall miningsystems are now in widespread use inthe mining industry. They use safehigh-voltage electrical equipment andassociated cables. Mine operators,however, currently must apply to us fora modification from the existingregulations if they want to use thishigh-voltage equipment.

The rule as proposed would eliminatethe need for a modification to use thisequipment and would establish safetyrequirements for the design,construction, installation, use, andmaintenance of high-voltage longwallequipment and associated cables.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

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

Period to11/13/1992

10/23/92 57 FR 48350

Action Date FR Cite

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

Period11/14/95 60 FR 57203

Comment Period End 12/18/95 60 FR 57203Reopen Record 12/28/99 64 FR 72620Comment Period End 02/28/00Final Rule 03/00/01





RIN: 1219–AA75

2218. INDEPENDENT LABORATORYTESTING




CFR Citation: 30 CFR 6; 30 CFR 29;30 CFR 33; 30 CFR 35; 30 CFR 18; 30CFR 19; 30 CFR 20; 30 CFR 22; 30 CFR23; 30 CFR 26; 30 CFR 27; 30 CFR 28


Abstract: Our current regulations allowus to set approval requirements and testproducts used in mines. The rule asproposed would allow us to: accepttesting of certain mine equipment byindependent laboratories; and approveproducts which satisfy alternativetesting and evaluation requirements ifthose requirements are equivalent toours, or could be enhanced to beequivalent.



DOL—MSHA Final Rule Stage

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 05/31/96 61 FR 15743Final Action 06/00/01



Government Levels Affected: Federal


RIN: 1219–AA87

2219. REQUIREMENTS FORAPPROVAL OF FLAME-RESISTANTCONVEYOR BELTS



CFR Citation: 30 CFR 14; 30 CFR 18;30 CFR 75Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 proposalwould 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 3/36/9302/11/93 58 FR 8028

Reopen Record andNotice of PublicHearing

03/31/95 60 FR 16589

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

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

Reopen Record 12/28/99 64 FR 72617Final Action 03/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: YesSmall Entities Affected: BusinessesGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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–AA92

2220. DIESEL PARTICULATE MATTER(EXPOSURE OF UNDERGROUNDMETAL AND NONMETAL MINERS)


RIN: 1219–AB11

2221. VERIFICATION OFUNDERGROUND COAL MINEOPERATORS’ DUST CONTROL PLANSAND COMPLIANCE SAMPLING FORRESPIRABLE DUST


RIN: 1219–AB14

2222. DETERMINATION OFCONCENTRATION OF RESPIRABLECOAL MINE DUST


RIN: 1219–AB18

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

2223. AIR QUALITY, CHEMICALSUBSTANCES, AND RESPIRATORYPROTECTION STANDARDSPriority: Other Significant

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


CFR Citation: 30 CFR 56; 30 CFR 57;30 CFR 58; 30 CFR 70; 30 CFR 71; 30CFR 72; 30 CFR 75; 30 CFR 90


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, asbestos

and 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 End08/30/91

NPRM Phase 3 - PELs To Be DeterminedNPRM Phase 2 -

RespiratoryProtection -Reproposal

To Be Determined





RIN: 1219–AA48

2224. CONFINED SPACES



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



DOL—MSHA Long-Term Actions


Abstract: Storage bins, hoppers, tanks,stockpiles, and other confined spacesat mining operations create hazards tominers. These hazards includeentrapment by shifting piles of loosematerials, falling into materials, andbeing struck by overhanging materials.Additionally, miners are exposed totoxic and physical hazards in theseconfined spaces. We will explore bothregulatory and non-regulatory ways toeliminate or reduce these hazards.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End05/01/92





RIN: 1219–AA54

2225. BELT ENTRY USE AS INTAKEAIRCOURSE TO VENTILATEWORKING SECTIONS






Abstract: Our current regulationsprohibit belt haulage entries from beingused to ventilate active working placesin mines. This prevents smoke from abelt conveyor fire from being coursedto a miner’s workplace.

Improved technology, includingsophisticated atmospheric monitoringsystems, makes it possible now tosafely use belt haulage entries toventilate active working places inmines provided certain conditions aremet. In some instances this would

result in more efficient and effectiveventilation systems. Mine operators,however, must apply to MSHA for amodification of the current regulationsif they want to use belt haulage entriesfor ventilation purposes.

The proposed rule would permit theuse of this type ventilation in certaincircumstances and eliminate the needfor the mine operator to apply for amodification.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/01




Additional Information: A publichearing was held in April 1990.


RIN: 1219–AA76

2226. SAFETY STANDARD REVISIONSFOR UNDERGROUND ANTHRACITEMINES






Abstract: Our current regulations forcoal mines do not adequately addressanthracite coal mining because of thesignificant differences in conditionsand hazards in those mines. Miningmethods in anthracite mines includeminimal use of mechanized equipmentand a slow rate of advance into the coalseam. In addition, anthracite coal isfound in pitched, undulating seams.

Mine operators currently must petitionus for a modification of the existingregulations for certain miningsituations. The proposed rule would

address the specific conditions of theanthracite mining industry andeliminate the need for a modificationof existing safety requirements.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite






RIN: 1219–AA96

2227. TRAINING AND RETRAINING OFMINERS (RULEMAKING RESULTINGFROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW)


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




Abstract: Our current regulationsrequire all mine operators to haveapproved plans for training of theirminers. We reviewed theserequirements as part of our RegulatoryFlexibility Review to determine ifchanges were appropriate. We areconsidering developing a proposed ruleto reflect a more flexible approach.

In response to public comments we areconsidering increasing the number ofhours of annual refresher training forsupervisors from 8 hours to 12 hours.The training needs of supervisors arebroader in scope than those of miners.We believe that better trained, moreknowledgeable supervisors willcontribute to their own safety and thatof miners under their supervision.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 10/01/96NPRM To Be DeterminedEnd Review To Be Determined



DOL—MSHA Long-Term Actions

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: YesSmall Entities Affected: Businesses,Governmental JurisdictionsGovernment Levels Affected: State,Local, TribalAdditional Information: RIN 1219-AB16(Training and Retraining of Miners:Supervisor Training) is combined withthis rulemaking.Agency Contact: Carol J. Jones,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]: 1219–AB02

2228. ∑ VERIFICATION OF SURFACECOAL MINES DUST CONTROL PLANSPriority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: Not Yet DeterminedCFR Citation: 30 CFR 71Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: MSHA recognizes that theSecretary of Labor’s AdvisoryCommittee on the Elimination ofPneumoconiosis Among Coal Workersmade several recommendations thatalso impact surface coal mine workers.

These surface coal mine issues will beaddressed by the agency in a separaterulemaking which is currentlyunderway. The scope of thatrulemaking will include many issuesthat are addressed in the undergroundrule including requirements for dustcontrol plans, verification of dustcontrol plans prior to approval, on shiftexamination of dust control measures,and the elimination of operatorsampling for compliance purposes.






RIN: 1219–AB21

2229. ∑ ASBESTOS EXPOSURE LIMIT





Abstract: Exposure to asbestos cancause lung cancer and may lead tocancers of the digestive system.MSHA’s asbestos standard is 20 yearsold and recent scientific data indicatesour permissible exposure limit (PEL)could be more protective. We areconsidering rulemaking to lower theasbestos PEL because miners may beat risk of developing asbestos-inducedoccupational lung disease.






RIN: 1219–AB24

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

2230. ∑ EFFECTUATION OF TITLE VIOF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964AND IMPLEMENTATION OF SECTION504 OF 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 VI

of 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 ofdisability in programs or activities thatreceive financial assistance from theDepartment of Labor.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00




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: 800 326-2577Fax: 202 219-5658Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1291–AA31



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

2231. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THEBASIS OF AGE IN PROGRAMS ANDACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERALFINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM THEDEPARTMENT OF LABORPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantLegal Authority: 42 USC 6101 et seqAge Discrimination Act of 1975CFR Citation: 45 CFR 90Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory,September 10, 1979, 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, whileDOL 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 section167 of the Job Training Partnership Actof 1982 and the implementingregulations at 29 CFR 34.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End03/01/99 63 FR 71714





RIN: 1291–AA21

2232. IMPLEMENTATION OF THENONDISCRIMINATION AND EQUALOPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS OFTHE WORKFORCE INVESTMENT ACTOF 1998


Legal Authority: PL 105-220, sec 188Workforce Investment Act


Legal 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 onthe grounds of race, color, nationalorigin, sex, age, disability, religion,

political affiliation or belief, participantstatus, and against certain noncitizens.Section 188(e) requires that theSecretary of Labor issue regulationsnecessary to implement section 188 notlater than one year after the date of theenactment of the WIA. Such regulationswill include standards for determiningcompliance and procedures forenforcement that are consistent withthe Acts referred to in section 188(a)(1),as well as procedures to ensure thatcomplaints filed under section 188 andsuch acts processed in a manner thatavoids duplication of effort.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Comment PeriodEnd

12/13/99

Final Rule 10/00/00


Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Tribal


RIN: 1291–AA29

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

2233. 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: Revisions to the DOLARreflect changes in the Federal

Acquisition Regulations andorganizational changes within DOL.





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.

Additional Information: Revision of theDepartment of Labor AcquisitionRegulation is awaiting the finalpublication of revisions to the FederalAcquisition Regulations as a result ofchanges being implemented pursuant topassage of the Federal AcquisitionStreamlining Act of 1994 enactedOctober 13, 1994 and the FederalAcquisition Reform Act of 1995.Agency Contact: Phyllis McMeekin,Director, Office of the AcquisitionAdvocate, Department of Labor, Officeof the Assistant Secretary forAdministration and Management, Room



DOL—OASAM Long-Term Actions

N5425, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 219-9174Fax: 202 219-9440Email: [email protected]: 1291–AA20

2234. AUDITS OF STATES, LOCALGOVERNMENTS, AND NONPROFITORGANIZATIONSPriority: Info./Admin./OtherLegal Authority: PL 104-156 110Stat.136; OMB Circular A-110; OMBCircular A-133CFR Citation: 29 CFR 99Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: The Department of Laborhereby adds title 29 CFR 99 ‘‘Auditsof States, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations’’ as a newregulation which codifies the revisedOffice of Management and Budget(OMB) Circular A-133 in its entirety.The Single Audit Act Amendments of1996 (Public Law 104-156, 110 Stat.136) and the June 24, 1997, revisionof OMB Circular A-133, ‘‘Audits ofStates, Local Governments, and Non-Profit Organizations,’’ required agenciesto adopt 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, localgovernments, 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


Effective03/25/99 64 FR 14537


05/24/99 64 FR 14537


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: State,LocalProcurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no

statutory requirement. There is nopaperwork burden associated with thisaction.

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

2235. AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FORGRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND OTHERAGREEMENTSPriority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 31 USC 7500 et seq;OMB Circular A-183



Abstract: The Department of Laborhereby revises title 29 of the Code ofFederal Regulations (CFR) part 96‘‘Audit Requirements for Grants,Contracts, and Other Agreements’’ toconsolidate various provisions andensure consistency, continuity, andameliorate conflicts with subtitle A of29 CFR parts 95 and 97.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective03/25/99 64 FR 14537


05/24/99 64 FR 14537



Government Levels Affected: State,Local

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

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: 202 219-9440

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1291–AA27

2236. 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 federally financedprograms and activities. TheDepartment last published a final ruleimplementing section 504 on October7, 1980. Since that time, section 504has been amended several times,generally to update terminology andprovide new definitions. TheDepartment is undertaking thisrulemaking to update 29 CFR part 32to incorporate those changes.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite



Government Levels Affected: State,Local, Tribal


RIN: 1291–AA28

2237. GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS


Legal Authority: PL 105-277



Abstract: The Department is joiningwith other Federal agencies inestablishing revised regulations forGrants. Congress included a two-



DOL—OASAM Long-Term Actions

sentence provision in OMB’sappropriation for fiscal year 1999,contained in Public Law 105-277,directing OMB to section 95.36 ofCircular 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 to institutions of highereducation, hospitals, and nonprofitinstitutions, from all Federal agencies.OMB finalized the revision onSeptember 30, 1999 (64 FR 54926). This

interim final rule amends the agencies’codification of Circular A-110 so theyreflect OMB’s recent action.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Effective04/17/00


05/15/00





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–AA30

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

2238. ∑ NONDISCRIMINATION ON THEBASIS OF SEX IN FEDERALLYASSISTED PROGRAMS ANDACTIVITIES—IMPLEMENTATION OFTITLE IX OF THE EDUCATIONAMENDMENTS OF 1972Priority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 20 USC 1682 et seqCFR Citation: 29 CFR 36Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: On June 17, 1980, theDepartment published a proposedregulation to implement therequirements of title IX of theEducation Amendments of 1972, asamended, which prohibitsdiscrimination on the basis of an

individual’s sex in federally assistededucational programs. That regulationwas never issued in final form. As aresult of subsequent statutoryamendments, it is necessary to revisethe prior proposed title IX regulationand begin a new rulemaking process.The Department’s regulation will bepublished as a common rule with otheragencies that need title IX regulations.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End12/28/99



Government Levels Affected: State,Local


RIN: 1291–AA32

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

2239. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOETHYLENE OXIDE (SECTION 610REVIEW)Priority: Other SignificantLegal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC553; 5 USC 610CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.1047Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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, the

complexity 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 2000.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

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



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AB60



DOL—OSHA Prerule Stage

2240. PROCESS SAFETYMANAGEMENT OF HIGHLYHAZARDOUS CHEMICALS






Abstract: OSHA is undertaking tworegulatory actions concerning theProcess Safety Management of HighlyHazardous Chemicals (PSM) standard.One action was to publish, in October,2000, an advance notice of proposedrulemaking to address the need to addreactive chemicals that are notcurrently covered by PSM to the ruleand the need to revise the language ofthe rule to clarify OSHA’s intent tocover flammable liquids stored inatmospheric tanks that are connected toa process. Another action is a proposalto add chemicals to the list of highlyhazardous chemicals in the PSMstandard that were not originallyincluded in the OSHA standard butwere included in the EnvironmentalProtection Agency’s (EPA) RiskManagement Program (RMP) rule (onepart of the RMP rule addressescompliance with the OSHA ProcessSafety Management rule). OSHA hasbeen asked by representatives of theregulated community to bring itschemical list into closer alignment withthe RMP rule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM Reactives 10/00/00NPRM Process Safety

ManagementTo Be Determined




RIN: 1218–AB63

2241. 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

Begin Review 10/01/97End Review 01/00/01



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: 202 693-2400Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB73

2242. PREVENTION OF NEEDLESTICKAND OTHER SHARPS INJURIES

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


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



Abstract: In 1998, OSHA published aRequest for Information (RFI)requesting information from the publicon the incidence of needlestick and

sharps injuries among workers inhealthcare, nursing home, and otherrelated work settings; the availabilityand extent of use of safer medicaldevices to prevent such injuries; thepotential cost and feasibilityimplications of relying on such devices;how best to evaluate the efficacy ofthese devices and encourage workeracceptance of them, and other issues.Workers receiving such injuries maycontract such deadly diseases asHepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or AcquiredImmune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) ifthe needle or sharp causing the injuryis contaminated by blood or otherpotentially infectious material from apatient or client with bloodbornedisease. OSHA received 396 responsesto the RFI. It has been estimated thatthere are 590,000 contaminatedneedlestick and sharps injuries everyyear. OSHA decided to take severalactions in response to the informationreceived: issuance of the RFI summaryreport; revision of the compliancedirective (CPL 2-2.44D) for theBloodborne Pathogens standard (29CFR 1910.1030); and proposed revisionof the Bloodborne Pathogens standardto clarify that, where feasible, safermedical devices must be used to satisfythe requirements of that paragraph:‘‘Engineering and work practicecontrols shall be used to eliminate orminimize employee exposure.’’ Therevised compliance directive wasissued in 1999. OSHA intends to issuethe proposed rule in the spring of 2001,and to hold stakeholder meetingsbeforehand.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 03/00/01




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: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB85



DOL—OSHA Prerule Stage

2243. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOPERCHLOROETHYLENE






Abstract: OSHA intends to issue anadvance notice of proposed rulemaking(ANPRM) to address the hazardsassociated with occupational exposureto perchloroethylene (also called‘‘tetrachloroethylene’’) (CAS 127-18-4).OSHA’s limits for this substance are100 ppm as an 8-hour TWA; 200 ppmas a 15-minute ceiling; and 300 ppmas a 5-minute peak not to be exceededin any 3-hour period (29 CFR1910.1000). These limits have been inplace for nearly 30 years and arewidely recognized as beinginadequately protective. NIOSHclassifies perchloroethylene as anoccupational carcinogen. Workersexposed to perchloroethylene mayexperience sensory irritation, narcosis,liver damage, and cancer. The ANPRwill solicit information from interestedparties on the risk, current exposurelevels, current industry controlpractices, and feasible means ofachieving reductions in existingexposure levels among workers inperchloroethylene-using industries. Itwill also request information on thehealth risks posed to workers byalternative processes and solvents,including new detergent formulations.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 06/00/01



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB86

2244. SANITATION






Abstract: On October 7, 1998, theAdvisory Committee on ConstructionSafety and Health (ACCSH)recommended that OSHA considerproposed revisions to the constructionsanitation standard (29 CFR 1926.51).OSHA believes that the ACCSHrecommendation raises importantissues regarding the type of sanitationfacilities needed for constructionworkers. OSHA intends to issue anANPRM to consider revisions to thesanitation standard that would includewashing facilities, gender-separate andlockable toilet facilities, and (whereother OSHA standards require changerooms), gender-separate and lockablechange facilities.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 12/00/00




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–AB87

2245. HEARING LOSS PREVENTION INCONSTRUCTION WORKERS






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, currentindustry practice with regard to the useof engineering, administrative andpersonal protective equipment toreduce exposures to noise is low in thisindustry. OSHA intends to issue anAdvance Notice of ProposedRulemaking (ANPRM) early in 2000,and to initiate stakeholder meetingslater in the year, to gather informationon the extent of noise-induced hearingloss among workers in different tradesin this industry, current practices toreduce this loss, and additionalapproaches and protections that couldbe used to prevent such loss in thefuture.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM 12/00/00




RIN: 1218–AB89



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

2246. SAFETY AND HEALTHPROGRAMS (FOR GENERALINDUSTRY AND THE MARITIMEINDUSTRIES)Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.86 in Part II of this issue of the FederalRegister.RIN: 1218–AB41

2247. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOHEXAVALENT CHROMIUM(PREVENTING OCCUPATIONALILLNESS: CHROMIUM)Priority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801.Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect the private sector under PL 104-4.Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 29USC 657CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 chromium(CrVI) compounds to 0.5 microgramsper cubic meter of air (ug/m3) as aneight-hour, time-weighted average(TWA). This would represent asignificant 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 thecompound equates to a PEL of 52ug/m3. This ceiling limit applies to allforms of hexavalent chromium (VI),including chromic acid and chromates,lead chromate, and zinc chromate. Thecurrent PEL for 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)rulemaking.The major illnesses associated withoccupational exposure to hexavalentchromium are lung cancer anddermatoses. OSHA estimates that

approximately 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 09/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB45

2248. CONFINED SPACES INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926):PREVENTINGSUFFOCATION/EXPLOSIONS INCONFINED SPACES






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 extendconfined-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 proposed

rule addressing this constructionindustry hazard next year.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency 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]: 1218–AB47

2249. PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURELIMITS (PELS) FOR AIRCONTAMINANTSPriority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801.Unfunded Mandates: This action mayaffect the private sector under PL 104-4.Legal Authority: 29 USC 655 (b)CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.1000; 29CFR 1915.1000; 29 CFR 1917.1(a)(2)(ii);29 CFR 1918.1(b)(a); 29 CFR 1926.55Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: OSHA enforces hundreds ofpermissible exposure limits (PELs) fortoxic air contaminants found in U.S.workplaces. Most of the aircontaminant limits were adopted byOSHA in 1971 from recommendationsissued by the American Conference ofGovernmental Industrial Hygienists andthe American National StandardsInstitute. These PELs, which have notbeen updated since 1971, thus reflectthe results of research conducted in the1950s and 1960s. Since then, muchnew information has become availablethat indicates that, in many cases, theseearly limits are outdated andinsufficiently protective of workerhealth.

OSHA believes that establishing arulemaking approach that will permitthe Agency to update existing aircontaminant limits and establish newones as toxicological evidence of theneed to do so becomes available is ahigh priority. OSHA published (61 FR



DOL—OSHA Proposed Rule Stage

1947) the name of the 20 substancesfrom which the proposed new PELs forthe first update were chosen: carbondisulfide, carbon monoxide,chloroform, dimethyl sulfate,epichlorohydrin, ethylene dichloride,glutaraldehyde, n-hexane, 2-hexanone,hydrazine, hydrogen sulfide,manganese and compounds, mercuryand compounds, nitrogen dioxide,perchloroethylene, sulfur dioxide,toluene, toluene diisocyanate,trimellitic anhydride, and vinylbromide. The specific hazardsassociated with the air contaminantspreliminarily selected for regulationinclude cancer, neurotoxicity,respiratory and skin irritation andsensitivity, and cardiovascular disease,etc. For this first stage in the currentrulemaking process, OSHA has decidedto propose new PELs for four chemicals- carbon disulfide, glutaraldehyde,hydrazine, and trimellitic anhydride -that have different adverse healtheffects, both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic, requiring different riskassessment approaches. For these fourchemicals, OSHA has modified ordeveloped new quantitative riskassessment approaches for cancer,respiratory sensitization and irritation,cardiovascular disease andneurotoxicity effects. Publication of theproposal will allow OSHA to continueto develop a mechanism for updatingand extending its air contaminantlimits, that will, at the same time,provide added protection to manyworkers who are currently beingoverexposed to toxic substances in theworkplace.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 06/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB54

2250. PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISIONOF THE FLAMMABLE ANDCOMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS STANDARDPriority: Substantive, Nonsignificant


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



Abstract: This project responds to thePresident’s Executive Memo of June1998 regarding the use of plainlanguage in Federal regulations. Withthis project, OSHA is initiatingrulemaking that will revise theregulations contained in 29 CFR1910.106 addressing flammable andcombustible liquids storage. Thepurpose of this rulemaking will be torestate this standard in plain language.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 04/00/01



Additional Information: The Flammableand Combustible Liquids PlainLanguage Revision Project, 29 CFR1910.106, was originally one of fourprojects listed under RIN 1218-AB55.


RIN: 1218–AB61

2251. PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISIONOF THE MECHANICAL POWER-TRANSMISSION APPARATUSSTANDARD



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



Abstract: OSHA has identified thisstandard in 29 CFR part 1910 forrevision as part of the President’sinitiative on Federal regulationsdiscussed in the U.S. Department ofLabor Report of June 15, 1995 and torespond to the President’s June 1998Executive Memo on Plain Language.OSHA intends to propose a plainlanguage revision of the rule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM - MechanicalPower-TransmissionApparatus

06/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB66

2252. 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 1926.950 to 968


Abstract: The annual fatality rate forpower line workers is over 50 deathsper 100,000 employees. The




construction industry standardaddressing the safety of these workersduring the construction of electricpower transmission and distributionlines is over 20 years old. OSHA isdeveloping a revision of this standardthat will prevent many of thesefatalities, that will add flexibility to thestandard, and that will update andstreamline the standard. In addition,OSHA intends to amend thecorresponding standard for generalindustry so that requirements for workperformed during maintenance ofelectric power transmission anddistribution installations are the sameas those for similar work inconstruction.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 06/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB67

2253. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOCRYSTALLINE SILICA


RIN: 1218–AB70

2254. STANDARDS IMPROVEMENT(MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES) FORGENERAL INDUSTRY, MARINETERMINALS, AND CONSTRUCTIONSTANDARDS (PHASE II)



Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b)

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.142; 29 CFR1910.178; 29 CFR 1910.219; 29 CFR

1910.261; 29 CFR 1910.265; 29 CFR1910.410; 29 CFR 1910.1001 to1910.1052; 29 CFR 1926.60; 29 CFR1926.62; 29 CFR 1926.1101; 29 CFR1926.1127; 29 CFR 1926.1129; 29 CFR1917.92


Abstract: The Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) iscontinuing the process of removing orrevising provisions in its standards thatare out of date, duplicative,unnecessary, or inconsistent. TheAgency is proposing these changes toreduce the burden imposed on theregulated community by theseprovisions and to further respond to aMarch 4, 1995 memorandum from thePresident. In this document,substantive changes are proposed forstandards that will revise or eliminateduplicative, inconsistent, orunnecessary regulatory requirementswithout diminishing employeeprotections. Phase I of this StandardsImprovement process was completed inJune 1998 (63 FR 33450).

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00




RIN: 1218–AB81

2255. PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISIONSTO SPRAY APPLICATIONS





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


Abstract: This plain language effortwill revise one of OSHA’s mostcomplex and out-of-date rules, those forspray finishing using flammable andcombustible liquids (29 CFR 1010.107).This standard addresses the hazardsassociated with the use of spray areasor spray booths to apply flammable orcombustible liquids to manufacturedequipment and objects. It includesspecifications for the design of spraybooths and areas, and for the use ofthese booths and areas and associatedequipment. The plain language rulewill be titled ‘‘Spray Applications.’’This rule was originally listed underRIN 1218-AB55.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00




RIN: 1218–AB84

2256. SIGNS, SIGNALS, ANDBARRICADES




CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926.200; 29 CFR1926.201; 29 CFR 1926.202; 29 CFR1926.203


Abstract: OSHA’s standard on Signs,Signals and Barricades (subpart G-29CFR 1926.200 through 1926.203)currently incorporates the AmericanNational Standards Institute’s 1971industry consensus standard ANSID6.1-1971. The ANSI organization haswithdrawn its 1971 standard and theU.S. Department of Transportation hasissued an updated standard entitled: AManual on Uniform Traffic Control




Devices (MUTCD). Because the OSHAstandard is out of date, the Agencyintends to propose changes to updatesubpart G to incorporate therequirements of the Department ofTransportation’s MUTCD into theOSHA rule.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/00




RIN: 1218–AB88

2257. ∑ CHANGES TO STATE PLANS


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden or

duplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: 29 USC 667CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1953Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: 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 andhealth 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

NPRM 10/00/00



Government Levels Affected: State,Federal

Agency Contact: Paula O. White,Director, Directorate of Federal StateOperations, Department of Labor,Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3700, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2213

RIN: 1218–AB91

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

2258. STEEL ERECTION (PART 1926)(SAFETY PROTECTION FORIRONWORKERS)Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No.88 in Part II of this issue of the FederalRegister.

RIN: 1218–AA65

2259. GLYCOL ETHERS: 2-METHOXYETHANOL, 2-ETHOXYETHANOL, AND THEIRACETATES: PROTECTINGREPRODUCTIVE HEALTHPriority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.



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. OSHA is workingtoward promulgation of a final rule in2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End07/31/87

NPRM 03/23/93 58 FR 15526

Action Date FR Cite


06/07/93





RIN: 1218–AA84



DOL—OSHA Final Rule Stage

2260. RECORDING AND REPORTINGOCCUPATIONAL INJURIES ANDILLNESSES (SIMPLIFIEDINJURY/ILLNESS RECORDKEEPINGREQUIREMENTS)


RIN: 1218–AB24

2261. ERGONOMICS PROGRAMS:PREVENTING MUSCULOSKELETALDISORDERS


RIN: 1218–AB36

2262. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOTUBERCULOSIS


RIN: 1218–AB46

2263. EMPLOYER PAYMENT FORPERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT


RIN: 1218–AB77

2264. CONSULTATION





Abstract: OSHA proposed anamendment to 29 CFR 1908, theAgency’s regulations governingconsultation agreements, to provide forfull employee involvement in theconsultative process in line with thePresident’s directive to enhance workerparticipation in the consultationprogram (The New OSHA: ReinventingWorker Safety and Health, May 1995),and to implement the requirements ofthe Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration Compliance AssistanceAuthorization Act of 1999 (section21(d)) of the OSH Act.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 07/02/99 64 FR 35972Final Rule 12/00/00



Agency Contact: Paula O. White,Director, Directorate of Federal StateOperations, Department of Labor,Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3700, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2213

RIN: 1218–AB79

2265. 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. OSHA has analyzedthe record and determined that it isappropriate to move forward with afinal rule addressing personal fallprotection requirements (subpart I of 29CFR 1910). The Agency intends to issuea final rule in 2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End08/22/90

Hearing 09/11/90 55 FR 29224Final Rule (Subpart I) 09/00/01



Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3609, 200

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB80

2266. PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISIONSTO THE EXIT ROUTES STANDARDPriority: Substantive, NonsignificantReinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 5 USC353CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.35; 29 CFR1910.36; 29 CFR 1910.37; 29 CFR1910.38Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: This plain language effortwill revise one of OSHA’s mostcomplex and out-of-date standards,Means of Egress, codified at 29 CFR190.38. This standard addresses exitroutes in general industry workplaces,which are essential to guide employeesto safety in an emergency. The plainlanguage rule will be titled ‘‘ExitRoutes.’’ This rule was originally listedunder RIN 1218-AB55.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 09/10/96 61 FR 47712Public Hearing 04/29/97 62 FR 9402Final Rule 12/00/00

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: NoneAgency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB82

2267. ∑ COTTON DUST: WASHEDCOTTON EXEMPTION (RULEMAKINGRESULTING FROM A SECTION 610REVIEW)Priority: Substantive, NonsignificantReinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the Reinventing



DOL—OSHA Final Rule Stage

Government effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.


CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910.1043(n)


Abstract: OSHA has completed aLookback Review of the Cotton DustStandard pursuant to Section 610 of theRegulatory Flexibility Act and Section5 of Executive Order 12866. As partof that review OSHA requested publiccomments (63 FR 32140, June 22, 1998)and held two public meetings. Duringthat review commenters representingthe National Institute for OccupationalSafety and Health (NIOSH), the WashedCotton Task Force, and industry andunion representatives on the task forcerecommended that OSHA expand thewashed cotton partial exemption thatappears in the cotton dust standard.

Raw cotton washed according to certainprotocols creates a much lower risk of

byssinosis, and the current cotton duststandard at 29 CFR 1910.1043(n)provides a partial exemption from thestandard for such washed cotton. TheWashed Cotton Task Force, made upof representatives of government,industry and unions, has sponsoredresearch which demonstrates thatcotton washed pursuant to anadditional process, batch kier washingfollowing a specific protocol, alsocreates a much lower risk of byssinosis.

One of the purposes of a LookbackReview is to streamline regulationwhen that is appropriate based onexperience or new science. Expandingthe washed cotton partial exemption issupported by new science and seemsgenerally to be supported by theaffected community. Accordingly,OSHA intends to promptly issue adirect final rule to expand the partialexemption from the cotton duststandard to batch kier washed inaccordance with the protocolrecommended by the Task Force.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Direct Final Rule 10/00/00




Additional Information: Will permitcotton textile mills, many of which aresmall businesses pursuant to the SBAdefinition, to choose an option whichwill reduce their costs to comply withOSHA’s cotton dust standard.


RIN: 1218–AB90

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

2268. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION(PROPER USE OF MODERNRESPIRATORS)

Priority: Economically Significant.Major under 5 USC 801.

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


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



Abstract: In January 1998, OSHApublished the final respiratoryprotection standard, except for thereserved provision on assignedprotection factors (APFs). APFs arenumbers that estimate the degree ofperformance of the various classes ofrespirators. OSHA is developing anapproach to devising APFs that

involves analyzing available dataincluding data from workplace andchamber studies, where such data areavailable. OSHA will request furtherpublic comment on the analysesconducted using this approach. Thiswill assure that OSHA receives andfully considers public input beforeissuing final APFs. OSHA expects tocomplete the rulemaking on APFs in2001.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End09/13/82

NPRM 11/15/94 59 FR 58884Final Rule 01/08/98 63 FR 1152Final Rule Effective 04/08/98 63 FR 1152Final Rule - Assigned

Protection Factors12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: NoGovernment Levels Affected: Federal,State, Local, TribalAgency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Acting Director, Directorate of HealthStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3718, 200

Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AA05

2269. LONGSHORING AND MARINETERMINALS (PARTS 1917 AND 1918)— REOPENING OF THE RECORD(VERTICAL TANDEM LIFTS (VTLS))





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, the



DOL—OSHA Long-Term Actions

Agency reserved provisions related tovertical tandem lifts. Vertical tandemlifts (VTLs) involve the lifting of twoempty single intermodal containers,secured together with twist locks, at thesame time. Because some commentersto the record questioned the safety ofallowing such tandem lifts and therecord does not contain adequateinformation to allow the Agency toaddress this issue, OSHA is gatheringadditional information. The Agencywill make a decision about whether toproceed with rulemaking or to addressthis issue through a compliancedirective in early 2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End09/23/94

Final Rule onLongshoring/MarineTerminals

07/25/97 62 FR 40142

Public Meeting onVTLs - 1/27/1998

10/09/97 62 FR 52671





RIN: 1218–AA56

2270. SCAFFOLDS IN SHIPYARDS(PART 1915 — SUBPART N)







Abstract: During the 1980s, OSHAembarked on a project to update and

consolidate 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 by addressing six shipyardemployment safety standards (ConfinedSpaces, Welding, Access/Egress,Personal Protective Equipment, FallProtection and Scaffolding). Proposalson these subparts were issued inNovember 1988 (53 FR 48092). Finalrules have been issued on two of theseproposals: Personal ProtectiveEquipment and Confined Spaces. Theremaining subparts in part 1915 werecategorized as Phase II of theconsolidation project (includingGeneral Working Conditions and FireProtection).

This standard will revise the existingshipyard employment standardscovering scaffolds and will consolidateall related and applicable 29 CFR part1910 provisions into 29 CFR part 1915.It will develop, in part, performance-oriented standards, address currentgaps in coverage, and address newtechnologies. About 75,000 workers arepotentially exposed to these hazardsannually.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End02/27/89

Reopened Record 04/12/94 59 FR 17290Comment Period

Ended06/13/94





RIN: 1218–AA68

2271. ACCESS AND EGRESS INSHIPYARDS (PART 1915, SUBPART E)(SHIPYARDS: EMERGENCY EXITSAND AISLES)







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 by addressing sixsubparts (Confined Spaces, Welding,Access/Egress, Personal ProtectiveEquipment, Fall Protection andScaffolding). Proposals on thesesubparts were issued in November 1988(53 FR 48092). Final rules have beenissued on two of these proposals:Personal Protective Equipment andConfined Spaces. The remainingsubparts in part 1915 were categorizedas Phase II of the consolidation project(including General Working Conditionsand Fire Protection).

This standard will revise the existingshipyard employment standardscovering access and egress and willconsolidate all related and applicable29 CFR part 1910 provisions into 29CFR part 1915. The revision willdevelop, in part, performance-orientedstandards, address current gaps incoverage, address new technology, andeliminate outmoded and redundantprovisions. About 75,000 workers arepotentially exposed to these hazardsannually.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 11/29/88 53 FR 48130




Action Date FR Cite


02/27/89





RIN: 1218–AA70

2272. ACCREDITATION OF TRAININGPROGRAMS FOR HAZARDOUSWASTE OPERATIONS (PART 1910)Priority: Other Significant. Major statusunder 5 USC 801 is undetermined.


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 for 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.OSHA has also developednonmandatory guidelines to further

address minimum training criteria.OSHA has not yet determined whatfurther steps, if any, are necessary inthis rulemaking.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End04/26/90 55 FR 2776


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedGovernment Levels Affected:UndeterminedAgency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB27

2273. INDOOR AIR QUALITY IN THEWORKPLACEPriority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.Unfunded Mandates: UndeterminedLegal Authority: 29 USC 655CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1915; 29 CFR 1926; 29 CFR 1928Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Every day, more than 20million American workers face anunnecessary health threat because ofindoor air pollution in the workplace.Thousands of heart disease deaths,hundreds of lung cancer deaths, andmany cases of respiratory disease,Legionnaire’s disease, asthma, andother ailments are estimated to belinked to this occupational hazard. EPAestimates that 20 to 35 percent of allworkers in modern mechanicallyventilated buildings may experienceair-quality related signs and symptoms.

After reviewing and analyzing availableinformation, OSHA published aproposed rule on April 5, 1994. Theproposal would require employers towrite and implement 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. The provisionsfor indoor air quality would apply to70 million workers and more than 4.5million nonindustrial indoor workenvironments, including schools andtraining centers, offices, commercialestablishments, health care facilities,cafeterias and factory break rooms. Theproposed ETS provisions would applyto all 6 million industrial andnonindustrial work environments underOSHA’s jurisdiction. OSHApreliminarily estimated that theproposed standard would prevent asubstantial number of air-qualityrelated illnesses per year.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Request forInformation

09/20/91 56 FR 47892


Period End08/13/94

Record Closed 02/09/96Next Action Undetermined





RIN: 1218–AB37

2274. GENERAL WORKINGCONDITIONS FOR SHIPYARDEMPLOYMENTPriority: Substantive, Nonsignificant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.


Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text in




the CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.


CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1915, subpart F


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.





RIN: 1218–AB50

2275. FIRE PROTECTION INSHIPYARD EMPLOYMENT (PART1915, SUBPART P) (SHIPYARDS: FIRESAFETY)





CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1915, subpart P


Abstract: During the 1980s, OSHAembarked on a project to update andconsolidate the various OSHA shipyardstandards that were applied in theshipbuilding, shiprepair, and

shipbreaking industry. With theassistance of the Agency’s MaritimeAdvisory Committee on OccupationalSafety and Health, OSHA formed aNegotiated Rulemaking Committee todevelop draft regulatory text addressingfire protection in shipyards. Thecommittee includes membersrepresenting employers, employees, andother affected parties. The committeehas drafted a regulatory text and is nowworking with OSHA staff to refine andsupport it in preparation forpublication as a proposed rule.

The operations that would be addressedin this rulemaking relate to firebrigades, fire extinguishers, sprinklersystems, detection systems, alarmsystems, fire watches, and emergencyplans. A total of 75,000 workers arepotentially exposed to these hazardsannually. This proposed standard isexpected to be published next year.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB51

2276. 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 to

exposure 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 Committeerecommended that OSHA proceed witha rulemaking on metalworking fluidsunder section 6(b)(5) of the Act.Workers exposed to these fluids are atrisk of developing respiratory diseases,including hypersensitivity pneumonitis,occupational asthma, and lung cancerand dermatoses. The committeesubmitted its report to OSHA in July,1999. OSHA plans to propose astandard in 2001.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB58

2277. 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 issuesrelate 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 comment




period on the ANPRM closed January24, 2000. OSHA is now evaluatingcomments to determine whether furtheraction is required.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End01/24/00





RIN: 1218–AB62

2278. SAFETY STANDARDS FORSCAFFOLDS USED IN THECONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY—PART II



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


Abstract: Since the promulgation of afinal rule for scaffolds used inconstruction in August 1996, severalissues have arisen under the newstandard. The Agency will solicitinformation on several issues including:(1) providing access to platforms wheredecking extends past the ends of thescaffold; (2) changing the minimumwidth for roof brackets to less than 12inches; (3) changing the requirementsfor grounding of the scaffold duringwelding operations; and (4) requiringthe use of scaffold grade planks.




Agency Contact: Russell B. Swanson,Director, Directorate of Construction,Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,Room N3468, 200 Constitution Avenue

NW, FP Building, Washington, DC20210Phone: 202 693-2020Fax: 202 693-1689Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB68

2279. SAFETY AND HEALTHPROGRAMS FOR CONSTRUCTION






Abstract: In response to industryrequests and in response to therecommendation of OSHA’s AdvisoryCommittee on Construction Safety andHealth (ACCSH), OSHA has determinedthat the current safety and healthprogram standards contained in subpartC of the construction standards, 29 CFR1926, need to be revised to provideconstruction employers with a morecomprehensive set of requirements toassist them in establishing safety andhealth programs. Safety and healthprograms have proven to be aneffective, systematic method ofidentifying and correcting existingworkplace safety and health hazards, aswell as preventing those that mightarise in the future.

After its April 1996 meeting, ACCSHbegan to develop language andconcepts to submit to OSHA forconsideration as a proposed rule. Over130 stakeholders representing small,medium and large contractors and hostemployers and stakeholders (such aspetroleum producers; contractorassociations; labor unions; othergovernmental agencies; and nonprofitinstitutions) have participated in theseACCSH discussions.

Although OSHA is still developing thedetails of a new proposed safety andhealth program standard, the proposalwill require employers to set up aprogram for managing workplace safetyand health in order to reduce theincidence of occupational deaths,injuries, and illnesses. The standardwill not impose duties on employersto control hazards that they are notalready required to control. Instead, thestandard will provide a basic

framework for systematicallyidentifying and controlling workplacehazards already covered by the OSHAct under section 5(a)(1) and currentOSHA standards.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite





Additional Information: A separatestandard is being developed for generalindustry (29 CFR 1910) and themaritime (29 CFR 1915, 1917 and 1918)industries (see entry for RIN 1218-AB41).


RIN: 1218–AB69

2280. CONTROL OF HAZARDOUSENERGY (LOCKOUT) INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926)(PREVENTING CONSTRUCTIONINJURIES/FATALITIES: LOCKOUT)

Priority: Economically Significant




Abstract: OSHA issued a generalindustry rule on September 1, 1989 (54FR 36644) to address the hazards posedto workers by the failure to controlhazardous energy (i.e., the failure toproperly lock out or tag out machinesand equipment) during repair andservicing activities. OSHA has not yetissued a standard to prevent theseaccidents during equipment repair andmaintenance activities in theconstruction industry. Four millionworkers annually may be exposed tothis hazard in construction workplaces.

Construction sites often do not haveeffective lockout/tagout procedures tocontrol hazardous energy because ofseveral factors, all associated with the




nature of the construction industry.These factors basically relate to thetypes of machines and equipmentfound in construction; the makeup ofthe industry (i.e., employment isrelatively ‘‘short term,’’ lasting only aslong as the length of the currentproject); multiple employers havingdifferent employer/employeerelationships are present at the samesite; and ‘‘in-the-field’’ maintenanceactivity is usually temporary. OSHAintends to issue a proposal to addressthis hazard in this industry.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite





RIN: 1218–AB71

2281. OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TOBERYLLIUM






Abstract: Beryllium is a lightweightmetal that is used for nuclear weapons,for atomic energy, and for metal alloyssuch as beryllium-copper andberyllium-aluminum. The metal alloysare used in dental appliances, golfclubs, non-sparking tools, wheelchairs,etc. Beryllium is also used in theceramics industry. OSHA’s currentpermissible exposure limits forberyllium are: an 8-hour TWA of 2ug/m3; a 5 ug/m3 ceiling concentrationnot to be exceeded over a 30-minuteperiod; and a 25 ug/m3 maximum peakexposure never to be exceeded.

In 1977, OSHA proposed to reduce the8-hour TWA exposure to beryllium

from 2 ug/m3 to 1 ug/m3 based onevidence that beryllium caused lungcancer in exposed workers. A hearingfollowed the proposal, but a finalstandard was never published. Sincethe previous OSHA hearing, NIOSH hasupdated its studies on berylliumexposed workers. The study resultsagain demonstrated a significant excessof lung cancer among exposed workers.The International Agency for Researchon Cancer (IARC) has concluded thatberyllium is a carcinogen in humans(Category I).

In addition to lung cancer, a newOSHA beryllium standard wouldaddress chronic beryllium disease(CBD), a fatal disease involving lungfibrosis and other organ toxicity. Basedon several recent studies involvingworkers employed in the berylliumceramics industry, in berylliumproduction, and in Department ofEnergy facilities, there is now evidencethat very low level beryllium exposure(less than 0.5 ug/m3) may cause CBD.A new medical surveillance tool is nowavailable that allows for the earlydetection of workers with CBD prior toany signs of clinical disease orsymptoms. Beryllium-sensitizedworkers convert to CBD at an estimatedrate of about 10 percent per year. This‘‘beryllium sensitization’’ test is beingused in clinical studies of current andpast exposed workers. Recent studyresults indicate that between 5 percentand 15 percent of beryllium-exposedworkers are sensitized and willeventually develop CBD.

In the past year, OSHA was petitionedto issue an emergency temporarystandard (ETS) by the Paper, Allied-Industrial, Chemical and EnergyWorkers Union (PACE) to protectworkers from developing ChronicBeryllium Disease (CBD) and lungcancer as a result of occupationalberyllium exposure. The petition wasdenied, but the Agency has initiatedrulemaking under Section 6(b)(5) toprotect beryllium-exposed workers fromcontracting these diseases.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 12/00/01




RIN: 1218–AB76

2282. CONSOLIDATION OF RECORDSMAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS INOSHA STANDARDS





CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1915 to 1918; 29 CFR 1926; 29 CFR1928


Abstract: OSHA is initiating arulemaking to simplify and consolidatemany of its requirements for employersto maintain records of training, testing,medical surveillance, and otheractivities conducted to comply withOSHA health and safety standards.These records maintenancerequirements appear in many OSHAstandards and are codified at 29 CFR1910 (General Industry), 29 CFR 1915-1918 (Maritime), 29 CFR 1926(Construction), and 29 CFR 1928(Agriculture). The final rule, whenpublished, will facilitate compliancewith these requirements and reduce theamount of paperwork associated withthese records, but will leave employeeprotections unchanged.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite




Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and Health




Administration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AB78

2283. OIL AND GAS WELL DRILLINGAND SERVICING


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




Abstract: OSHA intends to propose astandard for the oil and gas welldrilling and servicing industry. In 1982,OSHA proposed a standard for theindustry. OSHA believed at that timethat the OSHA general industrystandard did not adequately address thehazards of oil and gas well drilling andservicing and that this lack ofprotection contributed to a highnumber of deaths and injuries in theindustry. No final action was takenwith respect to the proposed standardand, therefore, there is still no specificOSHA standard for the oil and gas welldrilling and servicing industry. OSHAintends to repropose in the near future,because changes in technology,conditions in the industry, andworkforce demographics necessitate theissuance of a new proposal.

The oil and gas well drilling andservicing industry is involved inextracting underground deposits of oiland gas and in maintaining theequipment used to bring the oil andgas to the surface. In 1997, there were85 deaths resulting from accidents inthe industry, caused by such events asfalling from equipment/platforms toanother level, being struck or crushedby equipment, and being asphyxiated.OSHA has begun collecting informationand data with respect to the industryand will soon hold stakeholdermeetings to provide an earlyopportunity to those who may beimpacted by a standard to discuss theirideas on the rulemaking.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite





RIN: 1218–AB83

2284. ∑ WOODWORKING MACHINERY






Abstract: OSHA’s standards forwoodworking machinery (29 CFR1910.213) have not been updated sincetheir adoption in 1971. Thecorresponding industry consensusstandards have been updated severaltimes in the intervening years. OSHAintends to work with affectedstakeholders to develop an updatedwoodworking machinery standard thatreflects the technological advances andchanges in occupational safety andhealth practices that have taken placesince then. The revised standard willtake account of approaches included inthe most recent voluntary consensusstandard.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite




Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and Health

Administration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222Fax: 202 693-1663RIN: 1218–AB92

2285. ∑ ERGONOMICS PROGRAMS INCONSTRUCTION (PART 1926):PREVENTING WORK-RELATEDMUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERSAMONG CONSTRUCTION WORKERSPriority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b); 40USC 333CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1926Legal Deadline: NoneAbstract: Based on evidence thatemployers in the construction industryreport to the Bureau of Labor Statistics,more than 40,000 lost-timemusculoskletal disorders (MSDs) occuramong their workers every year.Accordingly, OSHA has decided tobegin to gather information for futurerulemaking to address these disorders.When the number of non-lost worktimeMSDs in this workforce is added to thetotal, the annual number of MSDsexperienced by construction workers islikely to exceed 200,000.Approximately one-third of the costsconstruction employers incur forworkers’ compensation every year goesto pay for these costly injuries.However, many work-related MSDs arepreventable, and many low-costmethods of reducing worker exposureto ergonomic risk factors are nowavailable for the construction industry.OSHA intends to publish an ANPR togather information on the constructionworkers most at risk, feasible methodsof reducing this risk, and successfulergonomics programs in construction.Timetable: Next Action UndeterminedRegulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: 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 20210




Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678RIN: 1218–AB94

2286. ∑ SUBPART S—ELECTRICALSTANDARDSPriority: Economically Significant.Major status under 5 USC 801 isundetermined.Reinventing Government: Thisrulemaking is part of the ReinventingGovernment effort. It will revise text inthe CFR to reduce burden orduplication, or streamlinerequirements.Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b)CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910. Subpart SLegal Deadline: NoneAbstract: The Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) isplanning to update the Subpart S-Electrical Standard and will relyheavily on 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 permit the completion of standardscovering safety-related maintenancerequirements and safety requirement forspecial equipment.Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Regulatory Flexibility AnalysisRequired: UndeterminedSmall Entities Affected: No


Agency Contact: Marthe B. Kent,Director, Directorate of SafetyStandards Programs, Department ofLabor, Occupational Safety and HealthAdministration, Room N3609, 200Constitution Avenue NW, FP Building,Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2222

Fax: 202 693-1663

RIN: 1218–AB95

2287. ∑ OCCUPATIONAL HEALTHRISKS IN THE MANUFACTURE ANDASSEMBLY OF SEMICONDUCTORS



CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined


Abstract: The manufacture andassembly of semiconductors requiresthe use of a variety of complexmixtures of chemicals. For most ofthese chemicals, adequate data ontoxicity are not available, althoughchemical structure suggests that theymay present potential health risks. Thetypes of mixtures used and theircomponents change rapidly in thisindustry. OSHA is a aware of casereports and epidemiologic studiessuggesting excesses of certain cancersand reproductive damage amongemployees in this industry. Althoughthese effects may be associated withprocesses and mixtures no longer incommon use, the 1995 PriorityPlanning Process emphasizedreproductive hazards as an item ofspecial concern.

Accordingly, OSHA is planning torequest information on the chemicalcontent of ‘‘photoresist’’ and othermixtures currently used insemiconductor manufacture andassembly, on employee exposures inthis sector, on toxicological informationavailable about the components ormixtures, and about feasible means ofreducing vapor-phase exposures inindustry ‘‘clean rooms.’’

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

ANPRM To Be Determined



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 20210

Phone: 202 693-1950Fax: 202 693-1678

RIN: 1218–AB96

2288. ∑ COMMERCIAL DIVINGOPERATIONS: TECHNICALAMENDMENT





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 granting of thevariance, other employers ofrecreational diving instructors haveasked OSHA to clarify the applicabilityof the variance to their operations.OSHA intends to issue a Request forInformation to obtain data on theappropriateness of amending thecommercial diving operations standardto reflect the alternative specified in thepermanent variance granted to DixieDivers, Inc.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Request forInformation

To Be Determined





RIN: 1218–AB97



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

2289. NATIONALLY RECOGNIZEDTESTING LABORATORIESPROGRAMS: FEES





Abstract: A number of OSHA standardsrequire that certain products andequipment used in the workplace betested and certified by a laboratory thathas been recognized and accredited byOSHA. Through the NationallyRecognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL)Program OSHA has, to date, recognized17 laboratories operating over 40 sitesin the United States, Europe, Canada,and the Far East as NRTLs. OSHArecently completed its revision of 29CFR 1910.7 to allow OSHA to chargefees to NRTLs for services that areprovided to the NRTLs by OSHA. Thefees are computed on the basis of thecost of the services to the Government.In determining the amount of such fees,OSHA followed the guidelinesestablished by the Office ofManagement and Budget in CircularNumber A-25. The final rule waspublished in the summer of 2000.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite


Period End10/04/99

Final Rule 07/31/00 65 FR 46797Final Rule Effective 08/30/00



Agency Contact: Bernard Pasquet,Directorate of Technical Support,Department of Labor, OccupationalSafety and Health Administration,

N3653, 200 Constitution Avenue NW,FP Building, Washington, DC 20210Phone: 202 693-2300Fax: 202 693-1644

RIN: 1218–AB57

2290. REVOCATION OFCERTIFICATION RECORDS FORTESTS, INSPECTIONS, AND TRAINING



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

CFR Citation: 29 CFR 1910; 29 CFR1915; 29 CFR 1926; 29 CFR 1917; 29CFR 1918


Abstract: OSHA has completed itsinitial assessment of its rules whichrequire employers to maintaincertification records of tests,inspections and training. Norulemaking action is anticipated duringthe next year. OSHA is withdrawingthis entry.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Withdrawn 06/20/00




RIN: 1218–AB65

2291. COTTON DUST (COMPLETIONOF A SECTION 610 REVIEW)


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



Abstract: OSHA has reviewed itscotton dust standard (29 CFR1910.1043) in accordance with therequirements of section 610 of theRegulatory Flexibility Act and section5 of EO 12866. The review covered thecontinued need for the rule; the natureof complaints or comments receivedfrom the public concerning the rule; thecomplexity of the rule; the extent towhich the rule overlaps, duplicates orconflicts 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 theindustries affected by the rule. Thereview concluded that the rule shouldbe continued without change except toexpand the washed cotton exemption.

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

Begin Review 10/01/97End Review 10/11/00



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: 202 693-2400Email: [email protected]

RIN: 1218–AB74

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

2292. ANNUAL REPORT FORFEDERAL CONTRACTORS


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



Abstract: The Veterans’ Employmentand Training Service is proposing toissue regulations implementing changesin the reporting requirements as statedin Veterans Employment OpportunityAct of 1998. The Act requires allFederal contractors and subcontractorswith contracts in the amount of $25,000or more to report their efforts toward

the hiring of qualified veterans. TheAct also added an additional categoryof veterans, ‘‘other veteran,’’ to beeligible for employment by Federalcontractors. This proposal will helpVETS assist in providing qualifiedveterans to maximize employment andtraining opportunities.



DOL—ASVET Proposed Rule Stage

Timetable:

Action Date FR Cite

NPRM 10/00/00Final Action 01/00/01



Agency Contact: Robert Wilson, Chief,Compliance Programs, VETS,Department of Labor, Office of theAssistant Secretary for Veterans’Employment & Training, S-1316, 200

Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington,DC 20210Phone: 202 693-4717Fax: 202 693-4755

RIN: 1293–AA07[FR Doc. 00–23743 Filed 11–29–00]BILLING CODE 4510–23–S
