Search Results for keywords:"Black Lung Benefits Act"

Found 4 results

Search Results: keywords:"Black Lung Benefits Act"

💰 Only
Oldest Newest
  • 2024-28848 — Black Lung Benefits Act: Authorization of Self-Insurers
    💰
    Type:Rule
    Citation:89 FR 100304
    Reading Time:about 82 minutes

    The Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs has issued a final rule regarding the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA) and the authorization of coal mine operators as self-insurers. This rule updates the process for operators to apply for self-insurance, sets new standards for the amount of security required to self-insure, and clarifies the appeals process. The rule aims to better secure the Trust Fund that pays benefits when operators default, by requiring all self-insured operators to provide security equal to 100% of their projected black lung liabilities. These changes are intended to protect the Trust Fund from financial strain caused by bankruptcies and reduce administrative burdens.

    Simple Explanation

    The Department of Labor has made new rules for coal companies that want to pay their own insurance for workers. They must now promise to cover 100% of possible costs, like piggy banks that are full just in case something goes wrong.

  • 2021-02614 — Black Lung Benefits Act Self-Insurance: Withdrawal of Guidance
    Type:Notice
    Citation:86 FR 8806
    Reading Time:about a minute or two

    The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) has decided to withdraw a notice and request for comments about self-insurance under the Black Lung Benefits Act that was initially published on January 8, 2021. This decision is due to changes in the legal rules and guidance that initially justified the publication. Although the notice has been withdrawn, there's no change to existing laws or regulations. OWCP plans to review the self-insurance bulletin and will allow the public to comment on self-insurance procedures at a future date.

    Simple Explanation

    The government decided to stop asking people what they think about a special rule for coal companies to handle certain health costs on their own. They're planning to think about it more and ask for ideas again later, but right now, nothing is changing for the rules or how things work.

  • 2021-00097 — Guidance on Black Lung Benefits Act Self-Insurance
    Type:Notice
    Citation:86 FR 1529
    Reading Time:about 3 minutes

    The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) announced a bulletin titled "DCMWC Self-Insurance Process Guidelines" that outlines updates to their process for evaluating self-insurance applications under the Black Lung Benefits Act. This act requires coal mine operators to either purchase insurance for benefits or get authorization from the Department of Labor to self-insure. The bulletin detailing these updates is open for public comment until February 8, 2021, and interested parties can submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal. OWCP's goal is to ensure that coal operators are financially responsible for benefits, minimizing reliance on the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund.

    Simple Explanation

    The government wants to make sure that companies that run coal mines have enough money to take care of their workers who might get sick from working there. They can either buy special insurance or get permission to handle the money themselves, and they need to follow new rules to make sure they're doing it right, which people can talk about and give their opinions on.

  • 2021-02635 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request; Medical Travel Refund Request
    💰
    Type:Notice
    Citation:86 FR 8805
    Reading Time:about 3 minutes

    The Department of Labor is asking for public comments on extending its authority to collect information related to the "Medical Travel Refund Request" under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This request aims to lower the paperwork and the time needed for individuals requesting reimbursements for travel expenses to medical providers. The Workers' Compensation Programs Office uses this information to facilitate claims under various acts, such as the Black Lung Benefits Act and the Federal Employees' Compensation Act. The public can submit comments by April 12, 2021, to influence the final approval process by OMB.

    Simple Explanation

    The Department of Labor wants people to tell them what they think about how they ask for info when someone asks for money back after seeing doctors. They hope to make this process less work for everyone.