DOL Launches Opinion Letter Program

The Department of Labor (DOL) has announced the launch of its opinion letter program. According to a press release, opinion letters provide official written interpretations from the department’s enforcement agencies explaining how laws apply to specific factual circumstances presented by individuals or organizations. While not legally binding, the DOL will release advisory opinions and information letters which provide advice on matters related to ERISA. These releases have been limited in recent years, and the announcement could be a nod to an increased focus by the agency in providing sub-regulatory guidance in this manner.