Search Results for agency_names:"Workers' Compensation Programs Office"

The Department of Labor is inviting public comments on its information collection effort regarding employment information, specifically its Request for Employment Information form, CA-1027. The goal is to minimize paperwork and make sure information collection is necessary and practical, in line with the Paperwork Reduction Act. Comments must be submitted by May 12, 2025, and can be sent electronically or as written submissions. These comments will help the agency assess the impact of its data collection and improve the process.

The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) is withdrawing a direct final rule published on December 14, 2020, which proposed changes to regulations on electronic filing, settlements, and penalties under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. This action aligns with a January 20, 2021, memorandum from the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff aiming for a regulatory review by the new administration. The withdrawal provides the administration time for assessment and may invite further public comments later.

The Department of Labor is proposing changes to rules regarding filing and service in proceedings involving the Administrative Review Board. The new rules aim to make electronic filing (e-filing) and electronic service (e-service) mandatory for attorneys and representatives, while self-represented individuals will have the choice of using electronic or traditional methods. The proposed changes include updates to existing regulations, aiming for improved efficiency and reduced processing time by transitioning to electronic case files. Public comments on the proposed rulemaking are being solicited until February 10, 2021.

The Department of Labor is requesting public comments on a proposed information collection related to attorney fees for representing federal employees in workers' compensation cases. This initiative aims to reduce paperwork while ensuring the data collected is useful and easy to understand. Feedback is specifically sought on the necessity, accuracy, and burden of the information collection process. Comments must be received by February 18, 2025, and the detailed information and procedures for submitting these can be found on the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by mail.

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.

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.

The U.S. Department of Labor is updating the civil monetary penalties it can impose, based on inflation, as part of the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act. This requires an annual review and adjustment of penalty amounts to ensure they keep pace with inflation. These updates are set to take effect on January 15, 2021, and apply to penalties assessed after this date. Different divisions within the Department, such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Mine Safety and Health Administration, are involved in overseeing these changes, which aim to maintain their deterrent effect.

The Advisory Board on Toxic Substances and Worker Health will hold a meeting on February 5-6, 2025, in Richland, WA, near the Hanford Site, to discuss various issues related to the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA). Public participation is encouraged, and people can submit comments or request to speak by January 29, 2025, through email or mail. The Advisory Board aims to review past recommendations, discuss new issues, and address concerns related to claims and medical guidance for workers affected by toxic substances. The meeting will be open to the public with an opportunity for comments on February 5, 2025.

The Department of Labor is asking for public comments on their information collection concerning the Carrier's Report of Issuance of Policy, Form LS-570. This is part of their effort to reduce paperwork and the burden on respondents, in line with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The agency is interested in feedback about the necessity, accuracy, and potential improvements on the data collection, and encourages suggestions for reducing the burden on respondents. Comments must be submitted by May 23, 2025, and more information is available on their website or at their office in Washington, DC.

The Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP) is seeking public comments on its proposal to collect information related to the Disclosure of Medical Evidence. This is part of an effort to reduce paperwork and ensure clarity while assessing the impact on respondents according to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Public comments must be submitted by May 5, 2025, and should focus on evaluating the necessity, accuracy, and efficiency of the proposed information collection. The OWCP aims to minimize the burden on respondents and improve data collection using technological methods.