Establishment of the Administrative Review Board

[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 87 (Friday, May 3, 1996)]

[Rules and Regulations]

[Pages 19982-19989]

From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[FR Doc No: 96-9910]

[[Page 19981]]

_______________________________________________________________________

Part III

Department of Labor

_______________________________________________________________________

41 CFR Part 50-203

Employment and Training Administration

20 CFR Part 601, et al.

Employment Standards Administration

20 CFR Part 702

Office of the Secretary

29 CFR Part 1, et al.

Wage and Hour Division

29 CFR Part 504, et al.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

29 CFR 1978

Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs

41 CFR Part 60-1, et al.

_______________________________________________________________________

Establishment of the Administrative Review Board; Final Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 87 / Friday, May 3, 1996 / Rules and

Regulations

[[Page 19982]]

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

41 CFR Part 50-203

Employment and Training Administration

20 CFR Parts 601, 617, 626, and 658

Employment Standards Administration

20 CFR Part 702

Office of the Secretary

29 CFR Parts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 22, 24, 32, and 96

Wage and Hour Division

29 CFR Parts 504, 507, 508, and 530

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

29 CFR Part 1978

Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs

41 CFR Parts 60-1, 60-30, 60-250, and 60-741

Establishment of the Administrative Review Board

AGENCY: Employment and Training Administration, Employment Standards

Administration, Office of the Secretary, Wage and Hour Division,

Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Office of Federal

Contract Compliance Programs, Labor.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This rule amends the regulations to provide that the functions

performed by the Wage Appeals Board and the Board of Service Contract

Appeals will henceforth be performed by the Administrative Review

Board. This rule also amends the regulations to provide that when the

Administrative Review Board is reviewing administrative decisions which

were previously decided by either the Wage Appeals Board or the Board

of Service Contract Appeals it will follow the rules of practice and

procedure of the Board which would have decided the case prior to the

promulgation of this rule. This rule also amends the regulations to

provide that the functions previously performed by the Office of

Administrative Appeals in advising and assisting the Secretary and

other deciding officials of the Department of Labor will henceforth be

performed by the Administrative Review Board, which is now designated

to issue final agency decisions under a number of laws.

This rule is promulgated to consolidate within one entity the

authority delegated by the Secretary to decide administrative appeals

and matters under administrative review. This consolidation should

result in administrative efficiencies and cost savings.

EFFECTIVE DATE: May 3, 1996.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David A. O'Brien, U.S. Department of

Labor, Room S-4309, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.

20210, Telephone (202) 219-4728

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On April 17, 1996, the Secretary of Labor

issued Secretary's Order 2-96 which establishes the Administrative

Review Board and transfers to it the authorities and responsibilities

previously delegated to the Wage Appeals Board and the Board of Service

Contract Appeals. Both the Wage Appeals Board and the Board of Service

Contract Appeals are eliminated by Secretary's Order 2-96. In addition

to those responsibilities, Secretary's Order 2-96 delegates to the

Administrative Review Board the Secretary of Labor's and other deciding

officials' authority to issue final agency decisions of administrative

appeals and of administrative review cases under certain laws, which

are enumerated in the Secretary's Order. Those enumerated laws are

those for which the Office of Administrative Appeals was previously

assigned the responsibility of advising and assisting the Secretary of

Labor and other agency officials in deciding administrative appeals and

matters of administrative review. The Office of Administrative Appeals

is eliminated by Secretary's Order 2-96.

The rules of practice and procedure for the conduct of an

administrative appeal or matter of administrative review brought to the

Administrative Review Board shall, until changed, continue to be the

rules that are currently prescribed for such an administrative appeal

or review.

Executive Order 12866

This rule is not classified as a ``rule'' under Executive Order

12866 on federal regulations, because it is a regulation relating to

agency organization, management or personnel. See section 3(d)(3) which

exempts this rule.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

Because no notice of proposed rulemaking is required for this rule

under section 553(b) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), the

requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601)

pertaining to regulatory flexibility do not apply to this rule. See 5

U.S.C. 601(2).

Paperwork Reduction Act

This final rule is not subject to section 3504(h) of the Paperwork

Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501) since it does not contain any new

collection of information requirements.

Publication in Final

The Department has determined that these amendments need not be

published as a proposed rule, as is generally required by the APA (5

U.S.C. 553), since this rulemaking merely reflects agency organization,

procedure, or practice. It is thus exempt from notice and comment by

virtue of section 553(b)(A).

Effective Date

This document will become effective upon publication pursuant to 5

U.S.C. 553(d). The undersigned has determined that good cause exists

for waiving the customary requirement for delay in the effective date

of a final rule for 30 days following its publication. This

determination is based upon the fact that the rule is technical and

nonsubstantive, and merely reflects agency organization, practice and

procedure.

Small Business Regulatory Fairness Act of 1996

This rule is not classified as a ``rule'' under Chapter 8 of the

Small Business Regulatory Fairness Act of 1996, because it is a rule

pertaining to agency organization, procedure, or practice that does not

substantially affect the rights or obligations of non-agency parties.

See 5 U.S.C. 804(3)(C).

List of Subjects

20 CFR Part 601

Labor, Unemployment Compensation, Administrative Practice and

Procedure.

20 CFR Part 617

Labor, Unemployment Compensation, Administrative Practice and

Procedure.

20 CFR Part 626

Employment, Labor, Manpower training programs.

20 CFR Part 658

Labor, Manpower Training Programs, Administrative Practice and

Procedure.

20 CFR Part 702

Administrative practice and procedure, Claims, Insurance,

Longshoremen, Vocational rehabilitation, Workers' Compensation.

[[Page 19983]]

29 CFR Part 1

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages.

29 CFR Part 2

Administrative practice and procedure, Government employees.

29 CFR Part 4

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages, and Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

29 CFR Part 5

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

29 CFR Part 6

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages.

29 CFR Part 7

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages.

29 CFR Part 8

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts, Labor,

Wages.

29 CFR Parts 22 and 24

Labor, Whistleblowing, Administrative practice and procedure.

29 CFR Part 32

Grant Programs, Civil Rights, Handicapped discrimination.

29 CFR Part 96

Labor, Nonprofit Organizations, Administrative practice and

procedure.

29 CFR Part 504

Aliens, Employment, Administrative practice and procedure.

29 CFR Part 507

Aliens, Employment, Administrative practice and procedure.

29 CFR Part 508

Aliens, Employment, Administrative practice and procedure.

29 CFR Part 530

Labor, Homeworkers, Administrative practice and procedure.

29 CFR Part 1978

Labor, Whistleblowing, Administrative practice and procedure.

41 CFR Part 50-203

Administrative practice and procedure, Government contracts,

Government procurement, Minimum wages.

41 CFR Part 60-1

Equal Employment Opportunity, Administrative practice and

procedure, Civil Rights, Government contracts.

41 CFR Part 60-30

Equal Employment Opportunity, Administrative practice and

procedure, Civil Rights, Government contracts.

41 CFR Part 60-250

Equal Employment Opportunity, Administrative Practice and

Procedure, Civil Rights, Government Contracts, Individuals With

Disabilities, Veterans.

41 CFR Part 60-741

Equal Employment Opportunity, Administrative Practice and

Procedure, Civil Rights, Government Contracts, Individuals With

Disabilities.

For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 20 CFR Parts 601, 617,

626, 658, and 702; and 29 CFR Parts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 22, 24, 32,

96, 504, 507, 508, 530, and 1978; and 41 CFR Parts 50-203, 60-1, 60-30,

60-250, and 60-741 are amended as follows:

TITLE 20

PART 601--ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE

1. The authority citation for 20 CFR Part 601 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 26 U.S.C. Chapter 23; 29 U.S.C. 49k; 38

U.S.C. Chapters 41 and 42; 39 U.S.C. 3202(a)(1)(E) and 3202 note; 42

U.S.C. 1302; and Secretary of Labor's Order No. 4-75, 40 FR 18515.

2. Section 601.1 is amended by adding paragraph (d) to read as

follows:

Sec. 601.1 General.

* * * * *

(d) As used throughout this Part, the terms ``Secretary'' or

``Secretary of Labor'' shall refer to the Secretary of Labor, U.S.

Department of Labor, or his or her designee.

PART 617--TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE FOR WORKERS UNDER THE TRADE

ACT OF 1974

3. The authority citation for 20 CFR Part 617 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 19 U.S.C. 2320, Secretary's Order No. 3-81, 46 FR

31117.

4. Section 617.3 is amended by revising paragraph (ff) to read as

follows:

Sec. 617.3 Definitions.

* * * * *

(ff) Secretary means the Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of

Labor, or his or her designee.

* * * * *

PART 626--INTRODUCTION TO THE REGULATIONS UNDER THE JOB TRAINING

PARTNERSHIP ACT

5. The authority citation for 20 CFR Part 626 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 29 U.S.C. 1579(a); sec. 6305(f), Pub. L. 100-418, 102

Stat. 1107; 29 U.S.C. 179i(e).

6. 20 CFR 626.5 is amended, in part, by revising the definition for

Secretary to read as follows:

Sec. 626.5 Definitions.

* * * * *

Secretary means the Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor,

or his or her designee.

* * * * *

PART 658--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS GOVERNING THE JOB SERVICE

SYSTEM

7. The authority citation for Part 658 is revised to read as

follows:

Authority: Wagner-Peyser Act of 1933, as amended, 29 U.S.C. 49

et seq.; 38 U.S.C. chapters 41 and 42; 5 U.S.C. 301 et seq.;

sections 658.410, 658.411 and 658.413 also issued under 44 U.S.C.

3501 et seq.

8. Section 658.710 is amended by revising paragraph (d) to read as

follows:

Sec. 658.710 Decision of the Administrative Law Judge.

* * * * *

(d) If the case involves the decertification of an appeal to the

State agency, the decision of the Administrative Law Judge shall

contain a notice stating that, within 30 calendar days of the decision,

the State agency or the Administrator may appeal to the Administrative

Review Board, United States Department of Labor, by sending by

registered mail, return receipt requested, a written appeal to the

Administrative Review Board, in care of the Administrative Law Judge

who made the decision.

9. Section 658.711 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 658.711 Decision of the Administrative Review Board.

(a) Upon the receipt of an appeal to the Administrative Review

Board, United States Department of Labor, the Administrative Law Judge

shall certify the record in the case to the Administrative Review

Board, which shall make a decision to decertify or not on the basis of

the hearing record.

[[Page 19984]]

(b) The decision of the Administrative Review Board shall be final,

shall be in writing, and shall set forth the factual and legal basis

for the decision. Notice of the Administrative Review Board's decision

shall be published in the Federal Register, and copies shall be made

available for public inspection and copying.

PART 702--ADMINISTRATION AND PROCEDURE

10. The authority citation for 20 CFR Part 702 is revised to read

as follows:

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 8171 et seq.; Reorganization Plan No.

6. of 1950, 15 FR 3174, 3 CFR, 1949-1953, Comp. p. 1004, 64 Stat.

1263; 33 U.S.C. 939; 36 D.C. Code 501 et seq.; 42 U.S.C. 1651 et

seq.; 43 U.S.C. 1331; Secretary's Order 1-93, 58 FR 21190.

Sec. 702.433 [Amended]

11. Section 702.433 is amended by substituting the words

``Administrative Review Board,'' for ``Assistant Secretary for

Employment Standards'' wherever they appear in paragraphs (e) and (f).

Sec. 702.434 [Amended]

12. Section 702.434 is amended by substituting the words

``Administrative Review Board,'' for ``Assistant Secretary for

Employment Standards'' wherever they appear in paragraphs (a), (b), or

(c).

TITLE 29

PART 1--PROCEDURES FOR PREDETERMINATION OF WAGE RATES

13. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 1 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; R.S. 161, 64 Stat. 1267; Reorganization

Plan No. 14 of 1950, 5 U.S.C. appendix; 29 U.S.C. 259; 40 U.S.C.

276a-276a-7; 40 U.S.C. 276c; and the laws listed in appendix A of

this part.

Sec. Sec. 1.1, 1.6, 1.9 [Amended]

14. In 29 CFR Part 1 remove the words ``Wage Appeals Board'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 1.1(a);

(b) Section 1.6(e)(2);

(c) Section 1.9 in the section heading and in the text in two

places.

PART 2--GENERAL REGULATIONS

15. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 2 is revised to read as

follows:

Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; Reorganization Plan No. 6 of 1950, 15

FR 3174, 64 Stat. 1263; 5 U.S.C. 552-556; Section 2.3 also issued

under 31 U.S.C. 952.

16. Subpart A of Part 2 is amended by adding Sec. 2.8 to read as

follows:

Sec. 2.8 Final agency decisions.

Final agency decision issued under the statutory authority of the

U.S. Department of Labor may be issued by the Secretary of Labor, or by

his or her designee under a written delegation of authority. The

Administrative Review Board, an organizational entity within the Office

of the Secretary, has been delegated authority to issue final agency

decisions under the statutes, executive orders, and regulations as

provided in Secretary's Order 2-96, published on May 3, 1996.

Sec. 2.12 [Amended]

17. In 29 CFR Part 2 remove the words ``Wage Appeals Board'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the

following place:

(a) Section 2.12(d).

PART 4--LABOR STANDARDS FOR FEDERAL SERVICE CONTRACTS

18. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 4 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 351 et seq., 79 Stat. 1034, as amended in

86 Stat. 789, 90 Stat. 2358; 41 U.S.C. 38 and 39; and 5 U.S.C. 301.

Secs. 4.1, 4.6, 4.11, 4.12, 4.55, 4.163, 4.187 [Amended]

19. In 29 CFR Part 4 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals'' and add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review

Board'' in the following places:

(a) Section 4.1b(a), in two places;

(b) Section 4.6(d)(2);

(c) Section 4.11(e), in two places;

(d) Section 4.12(d)(4)(iii);

(e) Section 4.12(f), in two places;

(f) Section 4.55(b), in two places;

(g) Section 4.163(c), in two places; and

(h) Section 4.187(a).

PART 5--LABOR STANDARDS PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO CONTRACTS COVERING

FEDERALLY FINANCED AND ASSISTED CONSTRUCTION (ALSO LABOR STANDARDS

PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO NONCONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS SUBJECT TO THE

CONTRACT WORK HOURS AND SAFETY STANDARDS ACT)

20. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 5 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 40 U.S.C. 276a-276a-7; 40 U.S.C. 276c; 40 U.S.C. 327-

332; Reorganization Plan No. 14 of 1950, 5 U.S.C. appendix; 5 U.S.C.

301; and the statutes listed in section 5.1(a) of this part.

Secs. 5.8, 5.11, 5.12 [Amended]

21. In 29 CFR Part 5 remove the words ``Wage Appeals Board'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 5.8(c);

(b) Section 5.11(c)(3);

(c) Section 5.11(d);

(d) Section 5.12(c);

(e) Section 5.12(d)(2)(iv)(C); and

(f) Section 5.12(d)(5), in two places.

Sec. 5.8 [Amended]

22. In 29 CFR Part 5 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals'' and add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review

Board'' in the following place:

(a) Section 5.8(c).

PART 6--RULES OF PRACTICE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS ENFORCING

LABOR STANDARDS IN FEDERAL AND FEDERALLY ASSISTED CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACTS AND FEDERAL SERVICE CONTRACTS

23. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 6 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Secs. 4 and 5, 79 Stat. 1034, 1035 as amended by 86

Stat. 789, 790, 41 U.S.C. 353 and 354; 5 U.S.C. 301; Reorg. Plan No.

14 of 1950, 64 Stat. 1267, 5 U.S.C. Appendix; 46 Stat. 1494, as

amended by 49 Stat. 1011, 78 Stat. 238, 40 U.S.C. 276a- 276a-7; 76

Stat. 357-359, 40 U.S.C. 327-332; 48 Stat. 948, as amended by 63

Stat. 108, 72 Stat. 967, 40 U.S.C. 276c.

Secs. 6.18, 6.19, 6.20, 6.21, 6.56, 6.57 [Amended]

24. In 29 CFR Part 6 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals'' and add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review

Board'' in the following places:

(a) Section 6.18(b)(3);

(b) Section 6.19(b)(1);

(c) Section 6.20, in two places;

(d) Section 6.21 (a) and (b);

(e) Section 6.56; and

(f) Section 6.57.

Secs. 6.32, 6.33, 6.34, 6.35 [Amended]

25. In 29 CFR Part 6 remove the words ``Wage Appeals Board'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 6.32(b)(4);

(b) Section 6.33(b)(1);

(c) Section 6.34, in two places; and

(d) Section 6.35, in two places.

Secs. 6.8, 6.43, 6.44, 6.46 [Amended]

26. In 29 CFR Part 6 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals or Wage Appeals Board'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board'' in the following places:

(a) Section 6.8;

(b) Section 6.43(b)(3);

(c) Section 6.44(b); and

(d) Section 6.46.

[[Page 19985]]

Sec. 6.45 [Amended]

27. In 29 CFR Part 6 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals'' and ``Wage Appeals Board'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board'' in the following place:

(a) Section 6.45.

PART 7--PRACTICE BEFORE WAGE APPEALS BOARD

28. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 7 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Reorg. Plan No. 14 of 1950, 64 Stat. 1267; 5 U.S.C.

301, 3 CFR, 1949-1953 Comp., p. 1007; sec. 2, 48 Stat. 948 as

amended; 40 U.S.C. 276c; secs. 104, 105, 76 Stat. 358, 359; 40

U.S.C. 330, 331; 65 Stat. 290; 36 FR 306, 8755.

29. The part heading for 29 CFR Part 7 is revised to read as

follows:

PART 7--PRACTICE BEFORE THE ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD WITH REGARD

TO FEDERAL AND FEDERALLY ASSISTED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS

Secs. 7.1, 7.3, 7.5, 7.7, 7.8, 7.15, 7.16 [Amended]

30. In 29 CFR Part 7 remove the words ``Wage Appeals Board'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 7.1(a); and

(b) Section 7.3;

(c) Section 7.5(a)(2);

(d) Section 7.7;

(e) Section 7.8 in the section heading;

(f) Section 7.15(a); and

(g) Section 7.16(a).

Sec. 7.16 [Amended]

31. In 29 CFR Part 7 remove the words ``Executive Secretary'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Executive Director'' in the following

place:

(a) Section 7.16(a).

32. Section 7.1 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as

follows:

Sec. 7.1 Purpose and scope.

(a) This part contains the rules of practice of the Administrative

Review Board when it is exercising its jurisdiction described in

paragraph (b) of this section.

* * * * *

PART 8--PRACTICE BEFORE THE BOARD OF SERVICE CONTRACT APPEALS

33. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 8 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Secs. 4 and 5, 79 Stat. 1034, 1035, as amended by 86

Stat. 789, 790, 41 U.S.C. 353, 354; 5 U.S.C. 301; Reorg. Plan No. 14

of 1950, 64 Stat. 1267, 5 U.S.C. Appendix; 76 Stat. 357-359, 40

U.S.C. 327-332.

34. The part heading for 29 CFR Part 8 is revised to read as

follows:

PART 8--PRACTICE BEFORE THE ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD WITH REGARD

TO FEDERAL SERVICE CONTRACTS

Secs. 8.1, 8.4, 8.6, 8.9, 8.10, 8.18 [Amended]

35. In 29 CFR Part 8 remove the words ``Board of Service Contract

Appeals'' and add, in their place, the words ``Administrative Review

Board'' in the following places:

(a) Section 8.1(a);

(b) Section 8.4(a)(2);

(c) Section 8.6 in the section heading;

(d) Section 8.9 in the section heading;

(e) Section 8.10(a); and

(f) Section 8.18.

Sec. 8.10 [Amended]

36. In 29 CFR Part 8 remove the words ``Executive Secretary'' and

add, in their place, the words ``Executive Director'' in the following

place:

(a) Section 8.10 (a).

Sec. 8.0 [Removed]

37. Section 8.0 is removed.

38. Section 8.1 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as

follows:

Sec. 8.1 Purpose and scope.

(a) This part contains the rules of practice of the Administrative

Review Board when it is exercising its jurisdiction described in

paragraph (b) of this section.

* * * * *

PART 22--PROGRAM FRAUD CIVIL REMEDIES ACT OF 1986

39. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 22 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Pub. L. 99-509, Secs. 6101-6104, 100 Stat. 1874, 31

U.S.C. 3801-3812.

40. Section 22.2 is amended by revising paragraph(c) to read as

follows:

Sec. 22.2 Definitions.

* * * * *

(c) Authority head means the Secretary of Labor or his or her

designee.

* * * * *

PART 24--PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS

UNDER FEDERAL EMPLOYEE PROTECTION STATUTES

41. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 24 is revised to read as

follows:

Authority: 42 U.S.C. 300j-9(i); 33 U.S.C. 1367; 15 U.S.C. 2622;

42 U.S.C. 6971; 42 U.S.C. 7622; 42 U.S.C. 5851; 42 U.S.C. 9610.

42. Section 24.1 is amended by revising paragraph (a) and by adding

paragraph (c) to read as follows:

Sec. 24.1 Purpose and scope.

(a) This part implements the several employee protection provisions

for which the Secretary of Labor has been given responsibility pursuant

to the following federal statutes: Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C.

300j-9(i); Federal Water Pollution Control Act, 33 U.S.C. 1367; Toxic

Substances Control Act, 15 U.S.C. 2622; Solid Waste Disposal Act, 42

U.S.C. 6971; Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7622; Energy Reorganization Act

of 1974, 42 U.S.C. 5851; Comprehensive Environmental Response,

Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, 42 U.S.C. 9610.

* * * * *

(c) Throughout this part, ``Secretary'' or ``Secretary of Labor''

shall mean the Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor, or his or

her designee.

PART 32--NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF HANDICAP IN PROGRAMS AND

ACTIVITIES RECEIVING OR BENEFITTING FROM FEDERAL FINANCIAL

ASSISTANCE

Subpart A--General Provisions

43. The authority for 29 CFR Part 32 continues to read as follows:

Authority: Sec. 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Pub. L. 93-112,

87 Stat. 394 (29 U.S.C. 794); sec. 111(a), Rehabilitation Act

Amendments of 1974, Pub. L. 93-516, 88 Stat. 1619 (29 U.S.C. 706);

secs. 119 and 122 of the Rehabilitation Comprehensive Services and

Developmental Disabilities Amendments of 1978, Pub. L. 95-602, 92

Stat. 2955; Executive Order 11914; 41 FR 17871.

44. Section 32.3 is amended by revising the term for Secretary to

read as follows:

Sec. 32.3 Definitions.

As used in this part, the term:

* * * * *

Secretary means the Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor,

or his or her designee.

* * * * *

PART 96--AUDIT REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND OTHER

AGREEMENTS

45. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 96 continues to read:

Authority: 31 U.S.C. 7500 et seq.; OMB Circular No. A-128; OMB

Circular No. A-110; and OMB Circular No. A-133.

46. Section 96.603 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(4) and

(b)(5) to read as follows:

Sec. 96.603 Grants.

* * * * *

(b) * * *

[[Page 19986]]

(4) Filing exceptions to decision. The decision of the

administrative law judge shall constitute final agency action by the

Secretary of Labor, unless within 21 days after receipt of the decision

of the administrative law judge, a party dissatisfied with the decision

or any part thereof has filed exceptions with the Administrative Review

Board, United States Department of Labor, specifically identifying the

procedures or finding of fact, law, or policy with which the exception

is taken. Any exceptions not specifically urged shall be deemed to have

been waived. Thereafter, the decision of the administrative law judge

shall become the decision of the Secretary of Labor, unless the

Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor, within

30 days of such filing, has notified the parties that the case has been

accepted for review.

(5) Review by the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor. Any case accepted for review by the Administrative

Review Board, United States Department of Labor, shall be decided

within 180 days of such acceptance. If not so decided, the decision of

the administrative law judge shall become the final decision of the

Secretary of Labor.

CHAPTER V--WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

PART 504-- ATTESTATIONS BY FACILITIES USING NONIMMIGRANT ALIENS AS

REGISTERED NURSES

47. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 504 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(a), 1182(m) and Pub. L.

101-238, sec. 3(c)(1), 103 Stat. 2099, 2103; and sec. 341 (a) and

(b), Pub. L. 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057.

Sec. 504.445 [Amended]

48. In 29 CFR Part 504 remove the words ``Office of Administrative

Appeals, room S-4309'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board'' in the following place:

(a) Section 504.445(f).

PART 507-- ENFORCEMENT OF H-1B LABOR CONDITION APPLICATIONS

49. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 507 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b), 1182(n), and 1184, and

29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.; Pub. L. 102-232, 105 stat. 1733, 1748(8 U.S.C.

1182 note); and sec. 341 (a) and (b), Pub. L. 103-182, 107 Stat.

2057.

Sec. 507.845 [Amended]

50. In 29 CFR Part 507 remove the words ``Office of Administrative

Appeals, room S-4309'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board'' in the following place:

(a) Section 507.845(f).

PART 508--ATTESTATIONS FILED BY EMPLOYERS UTILIZING F-1 STUDENTS

FOR OFF-CAMPUS WORK

Subpart K--Enforcement of the Attestation Process for Attestations

Filed by Employers Utilizing F-1 Students in Off-campus Work

51. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 508 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: 29 U.S.C. 49 et seq.; and sec. 221(a), Pub. L. 101-

649, 104 Stat. 4978, 5027 (8 U.S.C. 1184 note).

Sec. 508.1045 [Amended]

52. In 29 CFR Part 508 remove the words ``Office of Administrative

Appeals, room S-4309'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board'' in the following place:

(a) Section 508.1045(f).

PART 530--EMPLOYMENT OF HOMEWORKERS IN CERTAIN INDUSTRIES

Subpart A--Definitions

53. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 530 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Sec. 11, 52 Stat. 1066 (29 U.S.C. 211) as amended by

sec. 9, 63 Stat. 910 (29 U.S.C. 211(d)); Secretary's Order No. 6-84,

49 FR 32473, August 14, 1984; and Employment Standards Order No. 85-

01, June 5, 1985.

54. Section 530.1 is amended by adding paragraph (l) to read as

follows:

Sec. 530.1 Definitions.

* * * * *

(l) As used throughout this part the terms ``Secretary'' or

``Secretary of Labor'' shall mean the Secretary of Labor, U.S.

Department of Labor, or his or her designee.

PART 1978--RULES FOR IMPLEMENTING 49 U.S.C. 31105, THE

WHISTLEBLOWER PROVISION OF THE SURFACE TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE

ACT OF 1982 (STAA)

Subpart B--Rules of Procedure

55. The authority citation for 29 CFR Part 1978 is revised to read

as follows:

Authority: 29 U.S.C. 657(g)(2); 29 U.S.C. 660(c)(2); 49 U.S.C.

31101 and 31105; Secretary of Labor's Order No. 1-90, 55 FR 9033.

56. Section 1978.109 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) (1),

(2), (4) and (5) to read as follows:

Sec. 1978.109 Decision and orders.

* * * * *

(c) Final order. (1) Within 120 days after issuance of the

administrative law judge's decision and order, the Administrative

Review Board, United States Department of Labor, shall issue a final

decision and order based on the record and the decision and order of

the administrative law judge.

(2) The parties may file with the Administrative Review Board,

United States Department of Labor, briefs in support of or in

opposition to the administrative law judge's decision and order within

thirty days of the issuance of that decision unless the Administrative

Review Board, United States Department of Labor, upon notice to the

parties, establishes a different briefing schedule.

* * * * *

(4) Where the Administrative Review Board, United States Department

of Labor, determines that the named party has not violated the law, the

final order shall deny the complaint.

(5) The final decision and order of the Administrative Review

Board, United States Department of Labor, shall be served upon all

parties to the proceeding.

57. Section 1978.110 is amended by revising paragraphs (b) and (c)

to read as follows:

Sec. 1978.110 Judicial review.

* * * * *

(b) A final order of the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor, shall not be subject to judicial review in any

criminal or other civil proceedings (49 U.S.C. 2305(d)(2)).

(c) The record of a case, including the record of proceedings

before the administrative law judge, shall be transmitted by the

Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor, to the

appropriate court pursuant to the rules of such court.

58. Section 1978.111 is amended by revising paragraphs (c) and (d)

(2) and (3) to read as follows:

Sec. 1978.111 Withdrawal of section 405 complaints, objections, and

findings; settlement

* * * * *

(c) At any time before the findings or order become final, a party

may withdraw his objections to the findings or order by filing a

written withdrawal with the administrative law judge or, if the case is

on review, with the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor. The judge or the Administrative Review Board,

United States Department of Labor, as the case may be, shall affirm any

portion

[[Page 19987]]

of the findings or preliminary order with respect to which the

objection was withdrawn.

* * * * *

(d) * * *

(2) Adjudicatory settlement. At any time after the filing of

objections to the Assistant Secretary's findings and/or order, the case

may be settled if the participating parties agree to a settlement and

such settlement is approved by the Administrative Review Board, United

States Department of Labor, or the ALJ. A copy of the settlement shall

be filed with the ALJ or the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor as the case may be.

(3) If, under paragraph (d) (1) or (2) of this section the named

person makes an offer to settle the case which the Assistant Secretary,

when acting as the prosecuting party, deems to be a fair and equitable

settlement of all matters at issue and the complainant refuses to

accept the offer, the Assistant Secretary may decline to assume the

role of prosecuting party as set forth in Sec. 1978.107(a). In such

circumstances, the Assistant Secretary shall immediately notify the

complainant that his review of the settlement offer may cause the

Assistant Secretary to decline the role of prosecuting party. After the

Assistant Secretary has reviewed the offer and when he or she has

decided to decline the role of prosecuting party, the Assistant

Secretary shall immediately notify all parties of his or her decision

in writing and, if the case is before the administrative law judge, or

the Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor on

review, a copy of the notice shall be sent to the appropriate official.

Upon receipt of the Assistant Secretary's notice, the parties shall

assume the roles set forth in Sec. 1978.107(b).

TITLE 41

PART 50-203--RULES OF PRACTICE

Subpart A--Proceedings Under Section 5 of the Walsh-Healey Public

Contracts Act

59. The authority for 41 CFR Part 50-203 continues to read as

follows:

Authority: Sec. 4, 49 Stat. 2038; 41 U.S.C. 38.

60. Sec. 50-203.1 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as

follows:

Sec. 50-203.1 Reports of breach or violation.

* * * * *

(b) A report of breach or violation may be reported to the nearest

office of the Wage and Hour Division, Employment Standards

Administration or with the Administrator, Wage and Hour Division,

Employment Standards Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW.,

Washington, D.C. 20210.

* * * * *

Sec. 50-203.1 [Amended]

61. In Sec. 50-203.1(d) remove the words ``a Regional Director of

the Wage and Hour Public Contracts Divisions'' and add, in their place,

``the Wage and Hour Division''.

Sec. 50-203.2 [Amended]

62. In Sec. 50-203.2 remove the word ``Deputy''.

Secs. 50-203.3; 50-203.8 [Amended]

63. In 41 CFR Part 50-203 remove the words ``the Examiner'' and

add, in their place, the words ``the administrative law judge'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 50-203.3(a); and

(b) Section 50-203.8(j).

Sec. 50-203.6 [Amended]

64. Section 50-203.6(b) is amended by removing the following

language from its first sentence: ``(or the Administrator holding the

hearing as provided in Sec. 50-203(m))''.

Sec. 50-203.11 [Amended]

65. In Sec. 50-203.11(a) remove the words ``Admininstrator of

Workplace Standards'' and add, in their place, the words

``Administrative Review Board''.

66. In Sec. 50-203.11 remove the word ``Administrator'' and add, in

its place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the following

places:

(a) Section 50-203.11(d), in three places; and

(b) Section 50-203.11(e).

67. Section 50-203.11 is amended by revising paragraph (f), and by

removing paragraphs (g) and (h) to read as follows:

Sec. 50-203.11 Review.

* * * * *

(f) If the respondent is found to have violated the Act, the

Administrative Review Board shall determine whether respondent shall be

relieved from the application of the ineligible list provisions of

section 3 of the Walsh-Healey Public Contracts Act (sec. 4, 49 Stat.

2039; 41 U.S.C. 37).

Secs. 50-203.2-50.203.11 [Amended]

68. In 41 CFR Part 50-203 remove the words ``Trial Examiner'' and

add, in their place, the words ``administrative law judge'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 50-203.2, in two places;

(b) Section 50-203.3(d);

(c) Section 50-203.3(e);

(d) Section 50-203.4(a);

(e) Section 50-203.4(b);

(f) Section 50-203.5, in four places;

(g) Section 50-203.6(a);

(h) Section 50-203.6(b);

(i) Section 50-203.6(c);

(j) Section 50-203.7(a);

(k) Section 50-203.7(b);

(l) Section 50-203.8(b);

(m) Section 50-203.8(d);

(n) Section 50-203.8(e), in two places;

(o) Section 50-203.8(h);

(p) Section 50-203.8(j);

(q) Section 50-203.8(k), in two places;

(r) Section 50-203.8(l), in two places;

(s) Section 50-203.9(a), in two places;

(t) Section 50-203.10, in the heading;

(u) Section 50-203.10(a), in three places;

(v) Section 50-203.10(b), in two places;

(w) Section 50-203.11(a), in two places;

(x) Section 50-203.11(d), in two places; and

Sec. 50-203.11 [Amended]

68a. In 41 CFR Part 50-203 remove the words ``Trial Examiner's''

and add, in their place, the words ``administrative law judge's'' in

the following places:

(a) Section 50-203.11(b);

(b) Section 50-203.11(e);

Sec. 50-203.8 [Amended]

69. In 41 CFR Part 50-203 remove the words ``Trial Examiners'' and

add, in their place, the words ``administrative law judges'' in the

following places:

(a) Section 50-203.8(b);

(b) Section 50-203.8(c);

70. In 41 CFR Part 50-203 remove the word ``examiners'' and add, in

its place, the words ``administrative law judges'' in the following

places:

(a) Section 50-203.8(b);

(b) Section 50-203.8(c);

71. Section 50-203.8 is amended by revising the first sentence of

paragraph (a) to read as follows:

Sec. 50-203.8 Hearing.

(a) The hearing for the purpose of taking evidence upon a formal

complaint shall be conducted by an administrative law judge. * * *

Sec. 50-203.8 [Amended]

72. Section 50-203.8 is amended by removing paragraph (m).

Sec. 50-203.10 [Amended]

73. In Sec. 50-203.10(a) remove the words ``Secretary of Labor''

and add, in their place, ``Administrative Review Board''.

Sec. 50-203.11 [Amended]

74. In Sec. 50-203.11(a) remove the words ``Administrator of

Workplace Standards'' and add, in their place, ``Administrative Review

Board''.

[[Page 19988]]

75. Section 50-203.12 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 50-203.12 Effective date.

The amendments to Subpart A shall become effective upon publication

in the Federal Register May 3, 1996; Provided, however, That in any

case where a hearing has begun or has been completed prior to said

publication, the proceeding shall be conducted pursuant to the rules of

practice in effect at the time the proceeding was initiated unless the

parties stipulate in writing or orally for the record that the

proceeding be conducted in accordance with Secs. 50-203.1 to 50-203.12.

Secs. 50-203.17, 50-203.18, 50-203.20 [Amended]

76. In Part 50-203 remove the words ``Presiding Officer'' and add,

in their place, the words ``administrative law judge'' in the following

places:

(a) Section 50-203.17(d);

(b) Section 50-203.18(a);

(c) Section 50-203.18(c), in two places;

(d) Section 50-203.18(d); and

(e) Section 50-203.20, in two places;

Secs. 50-203.18, 50-203.21 [Amended]

77. In Part 50-203 remove the word ``Secretary'' and add, in its

place, the words ``Administrative Review Board'' in the following

places:

(a) Section 50-203.18(d), in two places;

(b) Section 50-203.21(b) introductory text; and

(c) Section 50-203.21(d);

78. Section 50-203.17 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read

as follows:

Sec. 50-203.17 Hearings.

(a) Hearings held for the purpose of receiving evidence with regard

to prevailing minimum wages in the various industries shall be

conducted by an administrative law judge.

* * * * *

Sec. 50-203.19 [Amended]

79. In Sec. 50-203.19 remove the words ``Secretary or the Hearing

Examiner'' and add, in their place, ``administrative law judge''.

80. Section 50-203.21 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read

as follows:

Sec. 50-203.21 Decisions.

(a) Within 30 days after the close of the hearing, each interested

person at the hearing may file with the administrative law judge an

original and four copies of a statement containing proposed findings of

fact and conclusions of law, together with reasons for such proposals.

The administrative law judge shall, immediately following the

termination of the thirty-day period provided for the filing of

proposed findings and conclusions, certify the complete record to the

Administrative Review Board.

* * * * *

Sec. 50-203.23 [Removed]

81. Section 50-203.23 is removed.

PART 60-1--OBLIGATIONS OF CONTRACTORS AND SUBCONTRACTORS

82. The authority citation for 41 CFR Part 60-1 continues to read

as follows:

Authority: Sec 201, E.O. 11246 (30 FR 12319), as amended by E.O.

12086.

83. Part 60-1.3 of Subpart A is amended by revising the definition

for ``Secretary'' to read as follows:

Sec. 60-1.3 Definitions.

* * * * *

Secretary means the Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor,

or his or her designee.

* * * * *

84. Part 60-1.26 of Subpart B is amended by revising paragraph (d)

to read as follows:

Sec. 60-1.26 Enforcement proceedings.

* * * * *

(d) Decision following administrative proceeding. If it is

determined after a hearing (or after the contractor waives a hearing)

that the contractor is violating the order or the regulations issued

thereunder, the Administrative Review Board, United States Department

of Labor, (in accordance with 41 CFR 60-30.30) shall issue an

Administrative order enjoining the violations and requiring the

contractor to provide whatever remedies are appropriate, and imposing

whatever sanctions are appropriate, or any of the above. In any event,

failure to comply with the Administrative order shall result in the

imposition of the sanctions contained in section 209 (a)(5) or (a)(6)

of the Executive Order.

* * * * *

PART 60-30--RULES OF PRACTICE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS TO

ENFORCE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246

85. The authority citation for 41 CFR Part 60-30 is revised to read

as follows:

Authority: Executive Order 11246, as amended, 30 FR 12319, 32 FR

14303, as amended by E.O. 12086; 29 U.S.C. 793, as amended, and 38

U.S.C. 4212, as amended.

86. Section 60-30.27 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.27 Recommended decision.

Within a reasonable time after the filing of briefs, the

Administrative Law Judge shall recommend findings, conclusions, and a

decision. These recommendations shall be certified, together with the

record for recommended decision, to the Administrative Review Board,

United States Department of Labor, for a final Administrative order.

The recommended findings, conclusions, and decision shall be served on

all parties and amici to the proceeding.

87. Section 60-30.28 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.28 Exceptions to recommended decisions.

Within 14 days after receipt of the recommended findings,

conclusions, and decision, any party may submit exceptions to said

recommendation. These exceptions may be responded to by other parties

within 14 days of their receipt by said parties. All exceptions and

responses shall be filed with the Administrative Review Board, United

States Department of Labor. Service of such briefs or exceptions and

responses shall be made simultaneously on all parties to the

proceeding. Requests to the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor, for additional time in which to file exceptions

and responses shall be in writing and copies shall be served

simultaneously on other parties. Requests for extensions must be

received no later than 3 days before the exceptions are due.

88. Section 60-30.29 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.29 Record.

After expiration of the time for filing briefs and exceptions, the

Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor, shall

make a final decision, which shall be the final Administrative order,

on the basis of the record. The record shall consist of the record for

recommended decision, the rulings and recommended decision of the

Administrative Law Judge and the exceptions and briefs filed subsequent

to the Administrative Law Judge's decision.

89. Section 60-30.30 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.30 Final Administrative Order.

After expiration of the time for filing, the Administrative Review

Board, United States Department of Labor, shall make a final

Administrative order which shall be served on all parties. If the

Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor,

[[Page 19989]]

concludes that the defendant has violated the Executive Order, the

equal opportunity clause, or the regulations, an Administrative order

shall be issued enjoining the violations, and requiring the contractor

to provide whatever remedies are appropriate, and imposing whatever

sanctions are appropriate, or any of the above. In any event, failure

to comply with the Administrative order shall result in the immediate

cancellation, termination and suspension of the respondent's contracts

and/or debarment of the respondent from further contracts.

90. Section 60-30.35 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.35 Recommended decision after hearing.

Within 15 days after the hearing is concluded, the Administrative

Law Judge shall recommend findings, conclusions, and a decision. The

Administrative Law Judge may permit the parties to file written post-

hearing briefs within this time period, but the Administrative Law

Judge's recommendations shall not be delayed pending receipt of such

briefs. These recommendations shall be certified, together with the

record, to the Administrative Review Board, United States Department of

Labor, for a final Administrative order. The recommended decision shall

be served on all parties and amici to the proceeding.

91. Section 60-30.36 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.36 Exceptions to recommendations.

Within 10 days after receipt of the recommended findings,

conclusions and decision, any party may submit exceptions to said

recommendations. Exceptions may be responded to by other parties within

7 days after receipt by said parties of the exceptions. All exceptions

and responses shall be filed with the Administrative Review Board,

United States Department of Labor. Briefs or exceptions and responses

shall be served simultaneously on all parties to the proceeding.

92. Section 60-30.37 is revised to read as follows:

Sec. 60-30.37 Final Administrative order.

After expiration of the time for filing exceptions, the

Administrative Review Board, United States Department of Labor, shall

issue a final Administrative order which shall be served on all

parties. Unless the Administrative Review Board, United States

Department of Labor, issues a final Administrative order within 30 days

after the expiration of the time for filing exceptions, the

Administrative Law Judge's recommended decision shall become a final

Administrative order which shall become effective on the 31st day after

expiration of the time for filing exceptions. Except as to specific

time periods required in this subsection, 41 CFR 60-30.30 shall be

applicable to this subsection.

PART 60-250--AFFIRMATIVE ACTION OBLIGATIONS OF CONTRACTORS AND

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR DISABLED VETERANS AND VETERANS OF THE VIETNAM

ERA

93. The authority citation for 41 CFR Part 60-250 continues to read

as follows:

Authority: 38 U.S.C. 4211 and 4212; 29 U.S.C. 793; Executive

Order 11758 (39 FR 2075, January 15, 1974; 3 CFR 1971-1975 Comp. p.

841).

Sec. 60-250.29 [Amended]

94. Part 60-250 in Subpart B is amended by removing paragraph

(b)(3) in Sec. 60-250.29.

PART 60-741--AFFIRMATIVE ACTION OBLIGATIONS OF CONTRACTORS AND

SUBCONTRACTORS FOR HANDICAPPED WORKERS

95. The authority citation for 41 CFR Part 60-741 continues to read

as follows:

Authority: Sec. 503, Pub. L. 93-1112, 87 Stat. 393 (20 U.S.C.

793), as amended by sec. 111, Pub. L. 93-516, 88 Stat. 1619 (29

U.S.C. 706) and E.O. 11758.

Sec. 60-741.29 [Amended]

96. Part 60-741 in Subpart B is amended by removing paragraph

(b)(3) in Sec. 60-741.29.

Signed at Washington, D.C. this 17th day of April 1996.

Robert B. Reich,

Secretary of Labor.

[FR Doc. 96-9910 Filed 5-2-96; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4510-23-P