FR 2025-00617

The document in question comes from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, part of the Department of Defense. It addresses a correction to a rule about how the Corps evaluates federal water resources investments. Initially published on December 19, 2024, and set to be effective on January 17, 2025, an error was found and corrected to clarify that the rule will become effective on January 18, 2025.

General Summary

The primary purpose of this document is to correct a technical error regarding the effective date of a rule involving the investment principles for federal water resources. The correction shifts the date from January 17, 2025, to January 18, 2025. While this might seem minor, such clarifications are crucial to ensure consistency with the original publication intentions and to avoid any ambiguity that might arise from misinterpretation of the rule's effective date.

Significant Issues or Concerns

Several notable issues emerge from the document. First, there is an inconsistency between the SUMMARY section and the corrective action specified; the initial effective date wrongly mentioned as January 17, 2025, creates potential confusion. Another concern arises from the document's clarity, particularly the phrase "effective 30 days after its publication," which leads to further confusion given the proximity of a conflicting date in the text. Moreover, the document largely discusses the effective date change, omitting a detailed explanation of the specific technical error identified. This lack of substantive information leaves readers unclear about the original mistake or its implications.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this correction might appear as a minor administrative adjustment. However, for those directly affected by federal water resource policies, the document signifies the importance of precise procedural adherence and transparency in governmental operations. Accurate effective dates ensure that stakeholders are adequately prepared and not caught off guard by any new regulations or procedures.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Stakeholders such as water resource managers, environmental advocates, and government contractors have a vested interest in this rule. The correction strengthens procedural transparency, ensuring that evaluations of proposed water investments align with federal requirements. This may provide positive reassurance for stakeholders who rely on specific timelines for planning and compliance.

Conversely, failure to communicate such corrections effectively could undermine trust among stakeholders who might depend on these timelines for planning and operational purposes. Accurate timings are crucial for stakeholders to align their activities with the federal regulatory framework without incurring unexpected costs or delays. By promptly rectifying the mistake, the Corps demonstrates accountability, ultimately aiding informed decision-making for those involved.