The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) held virtual-only public hearings for the Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria proposed rule and the Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria proposed rule on September 15, 2026, and September 16, 2026, respectively.
Background
On July 1, 2025, MSHA published two proposed rules in the Federal Register – Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria (90 FR 28432) and Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria (90 FR 28443). The Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria proposed rule would eliminate the provision that allows the District Manager to require additional measures to be included in roof control plans. The Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria proposed rule would eliminate the authority given to the District Manager to require additional provisions in ventilation control plans. The original public comment period for the proposed rules closed on September 2, 2025.
Public Hearings
MSHA reopened the rulemaking record for the proposed rules and announced two virtual-only public hearings to accept comments from the public. The public hearing for Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria was held on September 15, 2026. The public hearing for Ventilation Control Plan Approval Criteria was held on September 16, 2026.
The virtual public hearings began with an opening statement from MSHA, followed by an opportunity for members of the public to make oral presentations. Speakers and other attendees were given the opportunity to present information to MSHA for inclusion in the rulemaking record. The public hearings were conducted in an informal manner. Formal rules of evidence and cross examination did not apply.
Transcript and Written Comments
- Verbatim transcripts of the proceedings have been prepared and made a part of the rulemaking record. Copies of the transcripts are available to the public at the Federal eRulemaking Portal at the following links:
- Roof Control Public Hearing Transcript
- Ventilation Public Hearing Transcript
MSHA will accept post-hearing written comments and materials for the record from any interested party, including those not presenting at the public hearings, received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on September 30, 2026. Submit written comments and materials electronically at the following links – “Docket No. MSHA–2025-0072” for Roof Control Plan Approval Criteria and “Docket No. MSHA–2025-0084” for Ventilation Plan Approval Criteria. Follow the online instructions for making electronic submissions.