"(3)EXCEPTION FOR BLACKOUT PERIODS WITH LIMITED APPLICABILITY.-In any case in which the blackout period applies only to 1 or more participants or beneficiaries in connection with a merger,acquisition,divestiture,or similar transaction involving the plan or plan sponsor and occurs solely in connection with becoming or ceasing to be a participant or beneficiary under the plan by reason of such merger,acquisition,divestiture,or transaction,the requirement of this subsection that the notice be provided to all participants and beneficiaries shall be treated as met if the notice required under paragraph(1)is provided to such participants or beneficiaries to whom the blackout period applies as soon as reasonably practicable.

　　"(4)CHANGES IN LENGTH OF BLACKOUT PERIOD.-If,following the furnishing of the notice pursuant to this subsection,there is a change in the beginning date or length of the blackout period(specified in such notice pursuant to paragraph(2)(A)(iii)),the administrator shall provide affected participants and beneficiaries notice of the change as soon as reasonably practicable.In relation to the extended blackout period,such notice shall meet the requirements of paragraph(2)(D)and shall specify any material change in the matters referred to in clauses(i)through (v)of paragraph (2)(A).

　　"(5)REGULATORY EXCEPTIONS.-The Secretary may provide by regulation for additional exceptions to the requirements of this subsection which the Secretary determines are in the interests of participants and beneficiaries.