Rules of Practice and Procedure

The Department of Labor (DOL or Department) is issuing this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to seek public comments on a proposal to require electronic filing (e-filing) and electronic service (e-service) for attorneys and lay representatives representing parties in proceedings before the Employees' Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB or the Board). These proposed regulations would establish e-filing and e-service rules of practice and procedure for the Board that would apply where a governing statute, regulation, or executive order does not establish contrary rules of practice or procedure. The rule would mandate e-filing, makes e-service automatic of documents for parties represented by attorneys and duly authorized lay representatives, and provides an option for pro se/self-represented parties to utilize these capabilities. It would also allow the Board, in its discretion, to hold oral arguments by videoconference.

This is a factual description of what was issued or decided, not an assessment of it.