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

The U.S. Department of Labor has introduced a new rule requiring most legal representatives to file documents electronically and accept electronic service in cases before the Administrative Review Board (ARB), unless given an exemption for a good reason. This rule aims to streamline procedures and reduce reliance on paper documents by establishing a new set of rules for filing and service. Self-represented individuals will, however, have the option to file either electronically or conventionally. The rule is expected to make the process more efficient and aligns with practices used in federal courts.

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.

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 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 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 (DOL) is seeking comments on a proposal to extend the use of the Health Insurance Claim Form. This effort is part of an ongoing initiative to reduce paperwork and make the process easier for respondents, aligning with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The form, identified as OWCP-1500, is used to collect necessary information to pay health care providers for services to injured workers covered under various compensation programs. Interested parties are encouraged to submit comments, and all submissions will be publicly accessible.

The U.S. Department of Labor issued a final rule to adjust civil monetary penalties for inflation, as required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act. This rule, effective January 15, 2025, ensures that penalties keep up with inflation, applying a cost-of-living adjustment multiplier based on changes in the Consumer Price Index. The adjustments apply to penalties assessed after the effective date, maintaining the penalties' deterrent effect. This regulation does not consider public comments due to the non-discretionary nature of the inflation adjustments mandated by the Act.

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.

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.