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The Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) implemented new export control rules to manage the global distribution of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models and computing technologies. These rules introduce tighter controls on exporting certain AI model weights and advanced computing chips to protect national security. The measures include new licensing requirements, exceptions, and procedures for companies to follow when exporting these technologies. Additionally, BIS aims to balance securing these technologies with allowing their beneficial uses, ensuring that they are shared responsibly and securely.

The Department of Defense (DoD) is proposing updates to the rules governing operational contract support (OCS) outside the United States. These changes aim to broaden the scenarios where contracted support can be used, improve accountability and reporting of contractor personnel, and clarify the responsibilities of those involved. The updated rule seeks to enhance integration and oversight of contracted support as a vital defense capability, addressing areas identified as high-risk by the Government Accountability Office. Overall, these efforts intend to minimize wastage and improve the effectiveness of military operations supported by contractors.

The Department of Education announced an opportunity for public agencies and private non-profits to apply for grants to operate Equity Assistance Centers. These centers will provide technical help to schools on developing desegregation plans, ensuring all students have a safe and equitable learning environment, and addressing issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The department plans to fund four centers, one in each geographic region outlined, and encourages applications from entities that have not received similar grants recently. Applying organizations must follow specific guidelines and should aim to improve knowledge, change policies, and enhance the capacity to support equal educational opportunities.

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) has introduced proposed rules requiring certain registered public accounting firms to report firm- and engagement-level metrics on their audit practices. These metrics will provide stakeholders like investors and audit committees with valuable insights into audit processes, helping them make informed decisions. The metrics cover areas such as partner and manager involvement, workload, training, and retention of audit personnel. The PCAOB believes this initiative will enhance investor protection and foster transparency by offering more consistent and comparable information about audits and auditors.

The President of the United States has issued a memorandum delegating authority to the Secretary of State. This authority permits the Secretary to direct the use of up to $571.3 million in defense goods and services, and military training from the Department of Defense, to support Taiwan. This memorandum is to be officially recorded in the Federal Register.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has proposed new rules to encourage public utilities to invest in cybersecurity measures beyond what is currently required. These rules offer financial incentives like an increased rate of return and deferred cost recovery for utilities that enhance their cybersecurity infrastructure. The aim is to protect the Bulk-Power System against growing cyber threats by using established standards and frameworks like the Critical Infrastructure Protection Reliability Standards and the NIST Framework. Comments on this proposed rule are invited to ensure a wide range of insights, with a deadline for submissions set for April 6, 2021, and replies by May 6, 2021.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for the Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) Program, aimed at helping individuals with financial and academic aid to pursue postsecondary education. This program will distribute grants ranging from $232,050 to $1,280,000, with an estimated $55,994,306 in funds available. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, public and private agencies, and organizations experienced in serving disadvantaged youth. Up to 140 awards are expected, and applications need to be submitted by March 1, 2021, with a project period lasting up to 60 months.

The Department of Defense has released a notification about an arms sale to Egypt. The sale includes a system designed to protect aircraft from infrared-guided missile attacks, with various equipment such as the Guardian Laser Turret Assemblies and Missile Warning Sensors. The total estimated cost of this sale is $104 million. This move is intended to enhance the security of Egypt, a strategic partner of the U.S. in the Middle East, without affecting the military balance in the region.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has delayed the implementation of a new rule regarding the H-1B visa selection process until December 31, 2021. This rule intended to change how H-1B visa applications are selected, focusing on using wage levels for prioritization. The delay allows U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) additional time to update and test their systems and train their staff to ensure a smooth transition, avoiding confusion and operational disruptions. During this delay, H-1B registrations for the fiscal year 2022 will follow the existing random selection process.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for the 2021 Native Hawaiian Career and Technical Education Program (NHCTEP), funded under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. This program aims to enhance career and technical education for Native Hawaiians. This notice outlines eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines, highlighting significant changes from the Perkins V Act. Successful applicants may receive grants ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 for projects up to five years.