Federal Register #2026-15325

Proposed Regulatory Revisions for Black Lung Benefits Act Self-Insurer Authorization

This opportunity involves proposed regulatory changes by the Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs regarding self-insurer authorization under the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA). - Government Buyer: - Department of Labor - Office of Workers' Compensation Programs - No OEMs or commercial vendors are named, as this is a regulatory rulemaking, not a product or service procurement. - Products/Services Requested: - Development and implementation of revised regulations for self-insurer authorization under the BLBA - Establishment of processes for coal mine operators to apply for self-insurance - Definition of financial and actuarial standards for self-insurers - Specification of acceptable security instruments (letters of credit, 501(c)(21) trusts, reinsurance policies, parental guarantees) - Introduction of a risk-focused, multi-tiered framework using Altman Z-score and Ohlson O-score for financial assessment - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Emphasis on protecting the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund through rigorous financial standards - Public comment is requested on the proposed rule - No specific products, part numbers, or quantities are involved, as this is a regulatory action

Description

The Department of Labor is proposing revisions to regulations under the Black Lung Benefits Act governing the authorization of self-insurers. The proposed rules outline the process for coal mine operators to apply for self-insurance authorization, the qualifications required, the amount of security to be provided, and acceptable types of security. The goal is to protect the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund by ensuring operators meet financial and actuarial standards to cover liabilities. Comments on the proposed rule are requested by September 28, 2026.

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