Search Results for keywords:"Regulatory Changes"

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes a new regulation to enable electronic filing of the Certification of Admissibility (COA) form for importing certain fish and fish products to the United States. This rule aims to streamline the entry process for non-restricted seafood imports while maintaining adherence to laws like the Marine Mammal Protection Act, enabling consistency across programs and reducing paperwork burdens. By automating the COA process through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) portal, NMFS intends to facilitate trade while ensuring compliance with U.S. import restrictions on fisheries from foreign nations. Stakeholders, including importers and exporters, are encouraged to submit their comments on the proposal by February 18, 2025.

The Coast Guard has issued a final rule allowing for electronic submission of mariner credential applications and the payment of fees through an online system, aiming to modernize and streamline the process. The rule eliminates the requirement for prospective mariners to take an oath in person, updates certain procedures related to the issuance of credentials, and makes technical amendments like adopting gender-neutral language. The changes, effective January 19, 2025, are designed to improve efficiency and clarity, making it easier for mariners to manage their credentials.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the Department of Transportation is holding a virtual public meeting on January 16, 2025. This meeting involves two advisory committees, the Liquid Pipeline Advisory Committee (LPAC) and the Gas Pipeline Advisory Committee (GPAC), to discuss proposed rules on updating pipeline safety standards and cost recovery for LNG facility reviews. The public is encouraged to attend and submit comments by February 20, 2025. Information about joining the meeting will be made available online, and accommodations can be arranged for attendees with disabilities.

The U.S. Copyright Office has issued a final rule making changes to how cable operators report their royalties, specifically through the Statement of Account form. The changes clarify how different fees, like equipment and broadcast fees, must be reported, remove outdated references, and eliminate certain reporting categories to streamline the process. The rule also requires all payments to be made electronically and introduces measures for closing out statements of account when inquiries are not responded to within a set time frame. These updates aim to improve the clarity and efficiency of royalty reporting for statutory cable, satellite, and digital audio recording licenses.