WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer today announced the department’s initial deregulatory efforts, which aim to cut regulatory burdens, spur job creation, and fuel economic opportunity for American workers and businesses. 

The department’s bold plan includes 63 deregulatory actions aimed at reversing the costly and burdensome rules imposed under previous administrations, delivering on President Trump’s commitment to restore American prosperity through deregulation and marking the most ambitious proposal to slash red tape of any department across the federal government.

“One of President Trump’s very first actions was directing his cabinet to dismantle the mountain of outdated rules that have held back American workers and businesses for far too long,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “The Department of Labor is proud to lead the way by eliminating unnecessary regulations that stifle growth and limit opportunity. These historic actions will free Main Street, fuel economic growth and job creation, and give American workers the flexibility they need to build a better future.”

“The Department of Labor’s actions are unprecedented, slashing more than 60 obsolete and burdensome regulations impacting American workers,” said Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling. “While the previous administration prioritized expanding the size of government over job and wage growth, President Trump is focused on unleashing the greatest economic comeback in American history. We are proud to stand with this Administration to deliver economic security for working families by eliminating job-killing and inflation-driving red tape.”

In his first term, President Trump implemented one of the most aggressive deregulation efforts in history by mandating that two federal regulations be eliminated for each new rule issued. The Department of Labor alone took 37 deregulatory actions during those four years.

To build on the success of his first Administration, the President has now directed federal agencies to take an even bolder step by eliminating ten existing regulations for every new rule per his Executive Order “Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation.” With today’s announcement of more than 60 deregulatory actions, the department is quickly delivering on its core mission to put American workers and job creators first by ensuring burdensome regulations never stand in the way of prosperity. 

Additional details regarding the Department of Labor’s 63 deregulatory items will continue to be posted in the Federal Register. For more information, visit the Labor Department’s Federal Register page.

GOSHEN, IN – U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer continued her swing across the country as part of her “America at Work” listening tour to promote President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which passed the U.S. Senate today in a huge win for the American people. 

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited Shafer, a ready-mix concrete supplier in Lansing, Michigan, and Brinkley RV, a manufacturing start-up in Goshen, Indiana, to hear directly from American workers who stand to benefit most from this legislation. 

“I continue to be inspired by the American entrepreneurial spirit shown by the hardworking men and women I’ve met on my listening tour,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “From the concrete crews at Shafer in Michigan to the RV manufacturers at Brinkley in Indiana, these workers are exactly who this Administration is fighting for as we work to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill. President Trump’s historic proposal will deliver the largest tax cut in history for working families, no tax on overtime, and a lower tax burden on small businesses – ensuring they keep more of their hard-earned money to drive America’s economic comeback.”

“It's an honor to be in America’s heartland, hearing directly from the workers who form the backbone of our economy,” said Deputy Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling. “For the first time in decades, American workers have a President who is fighting to put them first. By passing the One Big Beautiful Bill, we’ll deliver on President Trump’s promise to grow our economy and give hardworking Americans a fair shot at the American Dream.”

Michigan

In Lansing, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and Deputy Secretary Sonderling were joined by Reps. John James and Tom Barrett for a tour of Shafer’s facilities, where they learned more about the company’s on-the-job training program and saw how concrete crews use cutting-edge technology to ensure precise mixture, consistency, and top-tier quality across all plants. They also toured the quality control room, repair shop, and operations center, offering insight into Shafer’s role in keeping the region’s construction industry strong.

“It was an honor to welcome my friend and U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to Michigan on her America at Work tour,” said Rep. James. “She confirmed what job creators deserve to hear: President Donald J. Trump is focused on growth, not red tape. In just six months, they’ve cut over 60 labor regulations – nearly twice what they did in Trump’s first term – and working to boost apprenticeships to one million strong! When government’s an ally, not an adversary, American workers lead.”

“Years of overregulation and excessive red tape have crushed businesses in mid-Michigan, discouraged economic growth, and sent the costs of new construction through the roof,” said Rep. Barrett. "Secretary Chavez-DeRemer understands these challenges, which is why I was honored to host her in Lansing to meet with the hard-working team at Shafer and discuss the ways that she and President Trump are jumpstarting job creation across our state. I appreciate her making the trip and look forward to continuing our work together to slash the red tape slowing our economy, cut taxes for hard-working families, and bring high-paying jobs back to our community.”

Indiana

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer concluded her two-week, seven-state swing with a stop at Brinkley RV in Goshen alongside Rep. Rudy Yakym, where they met with workers building fifth wheels and travel trailers for families across America.

“It’s an honor to welcome my friend, Secretary of Labor Chavez-DeRemer, to the Manufacturing Capital of America,” Rep. Yakym said. “Her dedication to strengthening our workforce, fueling job creation, and cutting red tape is exactly what we need to lead the next chapter of American manufacturing. I’m especially grateful to Brinkley RV for hosting us today and showcasing the kind of innovation and excellence that defines Indiana’s Second District.”

Launched in early April, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s “America at Work” listening tour is bringing real-world feedback from American workers to policymakers in Washington. Recent stops have included visits to Montana and Louisiana, highlighting how the Trump Administration’s pro-growth agenda will unlock trillions in new investments, strengthen the workforce, and a spark a new era of American economic resurgence.

Learn more about Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s efforts to deliver real results for hardworking Americans.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division today issued a field assistance bulletin clarifying that it may not seek or collect the payment of liquidated damages in any administrative matter under the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

The FAB reiterates that Congress made clear that such damages are reserved for judicial proceedings and responsibility falls to the courts of law – not the Department of Labor. 

Historically, the department did not seek liquidated damages in the administrative investigation stage until 2010, when the Obama administration began seeking liquidated damages prior to referral for litigation. In 2020, the Trump administration issued FAB 2020-2 to place guardrails on this controversial and legally questionable practice. 

The following year, the Biden administration issued FAB 2021-2, which outright rescinded the 2020 FAB and authorized the division to once again seek liquidated damages in administrative matters. This Biden-era FAB provided the regulated community with vague guidance on whether such damages would be sought, giving the agency virtually unfettered discretion. 

Today, the issuance of FAB 2025-3 ends the division’s ability to seek such damages in administrative proceedings. Ending this practice will foster more effective dispute resolution and ensure more fair, timely outcomes for American workers and businesses.

For additional guidance beyond the field assistance bulletin, workers and employers can contact the Wage and Hour Division at its toll-free helpline, 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243).

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer traveled across the country this week as part of her “America at Work” listening tour, visiting five states to underscore how President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will deliver much-needed tax relief for American workers and businesses. 

The Secretary highlighted how the Administration’s pro-growth agenda will unlock trillions in new investments, strengthen the workforce, and spark a new era of American economic resurgence.

“From Montana to Louisiana, I've heard directly from workers, small business owners, and community leaders who are ready for an economic comeback, and now they have a President who will deliver for them,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will provide the tax relief, investment, and regulatory certainty our job creators need to thrive, while empowering American workers with the opportunities they deserve. The Department of Labor is proud to help lead the charge to restore prosperity and prepare our workforce for the thousands of new jobs being created by the President’s America First policies.”

Montana 

In Bozeman, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited Schnee, a leading Montana outfitter known for its high-quality American-made outdoor footwear, boots, apparel, and hunting gear. While touring the factory floor, the Secretary engaged in a robust conversation with employees about how strengthening domestic production and supporting manufacturers through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will help businesses like Schnee sustain good-paying jobs, boost rural economies, and keep “Made in America” alive and well for future generations.

Later, the Secretary toured the TowHaul Corp. headquarters in Belgrade. A leader in manufacturing equipment for the mining industry, TowHaul’s cutting-edge innovation and commitment to reliability play a critical role in supporting America’s mine workers. While meeting with the TowHaul team, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer delivered remarks highlighting the vital importance of ensuring American manufacturing and mining remain the gold standard for the world.

New Mexico

In Santa Fe, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer addressed the Western Governors’ Association to highlight how President Trump is reversing the trend of America-last offshoring by securing trillions in new investments and bringing good-paying jobs back to America. The Secretary emphasized that the One Big Beautiful Bill will build on this historic momentum by delivering tax relief for American workers – including eliminating taxes on tips and overtime – ensuring more money stays in the pockets of hardworking families across the country. She also visited Santa Fe Community College, where she learned more about their hands-on training in welding, building trades, and automotive technologies programs. The One Big Beautiful Bill includes expanded access to Pell Grants for technical schools so students can be ready to fill in-demand jobs.

Kansas and Missouri 

In Kansas City, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer kicked off her day by having breakfast with local police officers to hear firsthand about the challenges facing law enforcement families and promote the President’s plan to implement no taxes on overtime. She then visited Waller Truck Co. Inc. to discuss workforce needs and transportation challenges vital to keeping goods moving across America. The Secretary wrapped up with a visit to Kansas at Geiger Ready-Mix Co., where she toured the dispatch room, met with employees tracking concrete deliveries in real time, and learned more about the concrete production process.

Throughout her stops, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer underscored how President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will help tackle workforce shortages, lower costs, and deliver tax relief, ensuring hardworking Americans can keep good-paying jobs and companies like Waller Truck and Geiger can stay in business for years to come.

Louisiana

In New Orleans, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer addressed the National Maritime Safety Association at their annual meeting, where she highlighted the Department of Labor’s commitment to promoting worker safety and building strong partnerships across the maritime industry. 

The Secretary also toured the Port of New Orleans by boat and met with local shrimpers to hear how cheap, unregulated imports are threatening a superior American product and an iconic coastal way of life. She stressed how President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will help restore and protect this American industry by championing the same high standards and dedication that America’s shrimpers bring to the docks every day.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division today announced it is suspending enforcement of the Biden Administration’s burdensome 2024 farmworker rule. The decision provides much-needed clarity for American farmers navigating the H-2A program, while also aligning with President Trump’s ongoing commitment to strictly enforcing U.S. immigration laws.

As multiple federal court injunctions have created significant legal uncertainty, inconsistency, and operational challenges for farmers lawfully employing H-2A workers, this field assistance bulletin clarifies that the department will not be enforcing the 2024 final rule effective immediately – providing critical predictability for agricultural employers as litigation continues and as the department considers further regulatory action. 

The rule’s implementation had already been suspended by the department because of federal injunctions. This guidance does not change existing regulations or limit the Wage and Hour Division’s authority to enforce H-2A requirements put in place prior to the 2024 final rule. It supersedes any contrary or conflicting guidance to field staff but does not create legally enforceable obligations or alter any statutory or regulatory requirements, ensuring full enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.

For additional guidance beyond the field assistance bulletin, workers and employers can contact the Wage and Hour Division at its toll-free helpline, 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer today celebrated 100 days since she was sworn in as the 30th Labor Secretary, marking a key milestone in her efforts to advance President Trump’s America First agenda by quickly delivering on her mission to empower U.S. workers and employers.

Since taking office, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer has hit the ground running to support the President’s bold, pro-growth policies that have spurred job creation, cut red tape, and ushered in a new Golden Age of economic opportunity for the American workforce.

“From day one, I promised to put American workers first and deliver on President Trump’s commitment to revitalize our workforce,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “Since then, we’ve jumpstarted a new Golden Age for American workers by creating hundreds of thousands of jobs, cutting burdensome regulations, saving taxpayer dollars, and investing in the skills and training that power our economy. I remain committed to building a strong, resilient labor force where workers and businesses can continue to grow and succeed.”

Launching the ‘America at Work’ listening tour

In April, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer embarked on her America at Work listening tour to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing hardworking Americans. Throughout her tour, the Secretary has met with manufacturers, union leaders, tradesmen, construction workers, longshoremen, and various stakeholders to ensure real-world experiences help shape and modernize federal labor policies and practices. 

From Oregon to Pennsylvania, she has engaged directly with American workers to learn more about how the federal government can assist in developing a skilled workforce and expanding opportunities for workers to achieve the American Dream. 

For example, the Secretary joined Anheuser-Busch in Ohio to announce a $300 million manufacturing investment through its “Brewing Futures” initiative, which includes building a new regional Technical Excellence Center in Columbus.

She also joined McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the company’s Archways to Opportunity educational program, which has created opportunities over the past decade for over 90,000 restaurant crew members by providing over $240 million in tuition assistance.

Supporting job creation

Since President Trump took office, the U.S. economy has added over 508,000 jobs, surpassing expectations for three consecutive months. Notably, native-born workers have accounted for all job gains, and trillions in private investments have fueled rapid job creation in critical sectors across the economy, including construction. 

Expanding apprenticeships

In April, President Trump signed an executive order calling on the Department of Labor to modernize workforce development programs and invest in opportunities to upskill workers to meet current labor market demands. The department has begun a full review of federal workforce programs to:

• Expand pathways beyond four-year degrees.
• Reach one million new active apprentices nationwide.
• Increase transparency and accountability in workforce development programs by collecting relevant data.

Since January 20, 2025, over 117,000 new apprentices have registered, and there are currently over 677,000 active apprentices nationwide.

On April 30, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer celebrated National Apprenticeship Day by welcoming the International Association of Fire Fighters to the Department of Labor. The signing ceremony recognized IAFF’s new National Apprenticeship Guidelines Standards and honored the union’s commitment to training their firefighters and emergency personnel through the Registered Apprenticeship model, marking a significant step toward achieving the Administration’s goal of one million new active apprentices.

Returning billions in COVID-era funds

Under Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s leadership, the Department of Labor has returned over $4.4 billion in unspent and unusable COVID-era funding to American taxpayers, ensuring the department is delivering on its commitment to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, and to be responsible stewards of taxpayers’ hard-earned money.

Protecting unemployment benefits for American citizens

In April, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer issued a warning to governors that states extending unemployment benefits to illegal immigrants would result in a loss of federal funding. The move reinforced the department’s commitment to uphold immigration law and prioritize benefits for American workers.

Purging discriminatory DEI policies

One of the first responsibilities Secretary Chavez-DeRemer fulfilled was carrying out President Trump’s executive order to eliminate unlawful diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and policies, including by overhauling the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs that focused primarily on DEI enforcement. 

Restoring retirement plan flexibility

In May, the Department of Labor rescinded a 2022 compliance bulletin that discouraged fiduciaries from including cryptocurrency options in 401(k) retirement plans. By rolling back this overreach, the Secretary ensured investment decisions were placed back in the hands of fiduciaries instead of D.C. bureaucrats.

Launching opinion letter program to expand compliance assistance

In June, the Department of Labor launched an opinion letter program to expand the its longstanding commitment to providing meaningful compliance assistance. This action represented a step forward in the Secretary’s mission to help workers, employers, and other stakeholders understand how federal labor laws apply in specific workplace situations.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer today announced that over $4.4 billion in unspent and unusable COVID-era funding has been returned to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s General Fund, completing a reconciliation process that began in March when $1.4 billion was returned to taxpayers. 

The funding was originally intended for states to use for temporary unemployment insurance during the pandemic. The Department’s Office of Inspector General recommended that its Employment and Training Administration develop a plan to reconcile and return these unused funds in a 2023 audit. 

“The pandemic is long behind us – it’s the federal government’s responsibility to return unusable COVID-era funding to the American people and ensure these dollars are being utilized effectively,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Labor is delivering on its commitment to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, and we will continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.”

This funding originated under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act in March 2020, which established the Temporary Full Federal Funding of the First Week of Compensable Regular Unemployment for States with No Waiting Week program. The program was intended to provide expanded unemployment insurance to Americans unable to work due to the pandemic. 

Read the full audit here.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Department of Labor Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling will participate in the 113th International Labor Conference in Geneva this week, leading a U.S. delegation focused on promoting the Trump administration’s America First labor agenda. 

Deputy Secretary Sonderling will give high-level remarks during the conference that champion the U.S.’s dominant gig economy and advocate for policies that promote innovation, freedom, and economic opportunity. His mission comes as the International Labour Organization considers new global standards that could threaten millions of businesses and workers in the U.S. and abroad.

“The United States is a global leader in the gig economy, and this administration intends to keep it that way by pushing back against international efforts to impose burdensome regulations that stifle innovation, harm growth, and kill jobs. President Trump has been clear: we will fight for American workers and American businesses each and every day – both at home and on the world stage. Amplifying that message and standing up for our people will be my key priorities at this year’s conference,” said Deputy Secretary Sonderling.

The gig economy has become a significant driver of economic growth, offering new pathways to good-paying jobs for millions of workers globally. U.S.-developed platforms have become driving leaders for gig work, powering everything from software development to rideshare and delivery services.

Deputy Secretary Sonderling will also host a roundtable to promote the U.S. as the premiere international leader in artificial intelligence, as well as hold bilateral meetings with representatives from various governments. He will also meet with ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo to discuss a shared commitment to ensure American workers and businesses are not undercut by unfair labor practices.

The 113th International Labour Conference runs from June 2 to June 13, 2025, in Geneva. More than 6,000 delegates are registered to attend the conference, representing governments, as well as employers’ and workers’ organizations, from the ILO’s 187 Member States.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer issued the following statement regarding the May 2025 Employment Situation Report:

“Today’s jobs report demonstrates yet again that we are making a remarkable economic comeback. With 139,000 jobs created in May, President Trump continues to deliver on his promise to put American workers and businesses first – beating expectations for three months in a row. 

“For too long, burdensome regulations and failed policies sold out blue-collar workers and shipped mortgage-paying jobs overseas. Now, thanks to President Trump’s bold America First agenda, 508,000 jobs have been created since he took office. Notably, native-born workers have accounted for all job gains. 

“I remain committed to working with President Trump to build a strong workforce and renew the American Dream. To achieve these goals and ignite even more economic opportunity for our workers, we need the One Big Beautiful Bill, which will eliminate taxes on tips and deliver the largest tax cut for working-class Americans in history.”

EDISON, NJ – U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer continued her America at Work listening tour this week with visits to Long Island, New York, and Edison, New Jersey, where she met with apprentices and observed hands-on training in welding, framing, and acoustical work.

“Our nation’s skilled workforce is thriving under President Trump’s leadership, with thousands of new jobs created on Long Island and in New Jersey since he took office,” said Secretary Chavez-DeRemer. “This week, I’ve seen firsthand the impact of investments in top-notch training programs that drive local economic growth. When we invest in skills and opportunity, we empower men and women to build better lives for themselves and their families. I appreciate Congressmen Garbarino, LaLota, and Kean hosting me on my America at Work tour and will continue working with them to Make America Skilled Again.”

“Long Island has long been a leader in workforce innovation, and today’s visit showcased the strong partnerships between labor, education, and government that are building pathways to good-paying jobs for local workers,” said Rep. Andrew Garbarino. “From apprentices learning the trades at Local 290 to advanced technical training programs at Suffolk County Community College, these initiatives are not only equipping our workforce with the skills they need – they’re also strengthening Long Island’s economic future. I thank Secretary Chavez-DeRemer for making the trip and recognizing the importance of continued investment in our skilled workforce.”

“Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s visit to Suffolk County and her engagement with Long Island’s blue-collar labor leaders highlight the new Republican Party’s commitment to supporting both business growth and hardworking Americans through fair wages, safe working conditions, and expanded opportunities,” said Rep. Nick LaLota. “To keep our region competitive, we must continue investing in workforce development and modern infrastructure. In Congress, I’ll keep fighting for commonsense solutions that strengthen job training, connect workers to good-paying careers, and grow Long Island’s economy from the ground up.”

New York

Joined by Reps. Garbarino and LaLota, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer visited the Northeast Regional Council of Carpenters Local 290 Training Center in Hauppauge, where she observed hands-on technical instruction in welding, framing, and acoustical work. She also engaged with apprentices to discuss the importance of developing practical skills. 

Later, they toured Suffolk County Community College’s National Offshore Wind Training Center in Brentwood, a state-of-the-art program preparing local workers for careers in the emerging offshore wind industry. The group also toured specialized training facilities focused on fire awareness, sea survival, and working-at-heights safety – critical for ensuring safe and effective operations in offshore environments.

The Secretary concluded her Long Island stop with a roundtable discussion hosted by the Society for Human Resource Management to discuss strategies for building workplaces that help both people and businesses thrive.

New Jersey

In Edison, the Secretary visited the Northeast Carpenters Training Center in Edison with Rep. Kean. This state-of-the-art, union-owned facility, part of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers, provides hands-on training in carpentry, millwright work, cabinetmaking, and floor laying. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the importance of developing pathways to success through high-quality workforce development programs that equip apprentices with the resources they need to excel.

“From construction and manufacturing to transportation infrastructure, everything built in New Jersey is built by the hands of dedicated tradesmen and women,” said Rep. Tom Kean Jr. “Today’s visit to the Northeast Carpenters Training Center, alongside Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, was an incredible opportunity to see the next generation of skilled laborers in action. The center’s workforce development programs show how strong partnerships between labor, industry, and educators equip students with the skills, leadership, and safety training they need to succeed on the job and return home safely to their families each night. As we invest in infrastructure, innovation, and nationwide projects, New Jersey will continue to lead the way due to its strong and skilled workforce. I want to thank Secretary Chavez-DeRemer for her continued leadership and for visiting the great Garden State.”

Secretary Chavez-DeRemer launched her America at Work listening tour in early April to bring real-world feedback from American workers to policymakers in Washington. Recent stops have included visits to Colorado and Arizona, highlighting best practices and successful workforce development initiatives across the country.

Learn more about Secretary Chavez-DeRemer’s efforts to strengthen America’s skilled workforce.