MSHA to Rewrite Parts of the Silica Rule

Implementation Delayed

MAA has been informed that MSHA plans to rewrite certain parts of the Silica Rule. NSSGA and other groups had asked MSHA to share a clear timeline for this work. Since MSHA did not provide one, NSSGA filed a report asking the Court to pause the case for 30 days and require MSHA to give an updated timeline.

What Does This Mean?

• The April 2026 start date no longer applies.
• The rule will not be put into effect or enforced this spring.
• MSHA will now create and propose a revised rule that focuses on the areas industry groups challenged.
• This will not be a completely new rule, but changes will be made.
• A new proposal is expected sometime in late spring or early summer of 2026, though this is only a guess.
• When the new proposal comes out, there will be another chance for the public to comment, and likely a public hearing.

NSSGA will continue to push for improvements to make sure the silica rule protects miners’ health and is based on solid science while also being practical for operators to follow.
MAA will share updates as more information becomes available.