Search Results for keywords:"Defense Operations

The Department of State has issued a final rule to amend the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), specifically adjusting the fees required for registration with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). The updated rule increases the registration fees for the first time in fifteen years, necessary to cover rising operational costs and prevent budget deficits. Responses to public comments were considered, particularly concerning the impact on small businesses, leading to the introduction of a discounted fee for qualifying Tier 1 registrants. The changes aim to maintain DDTC operations while ensuring fair distribution of costs among registrants.

In a proposed rule change, Nasdaq BX, Inc. seeks to adjust the intervals between strikes for Short Term Options Series (STOS) contracts that have expiration dates more than twenty-one days from their listing date. This change aims to create a more efficient market by reducing the number of strikes for less frequently traded options, refining them based on customer demand and the stock's price. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved this proposal, as it aligns with regulations designed to improve market operations and protect investors. Public comments generally supported the proposal, with some suggestions for simplifying its implementation.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) has approved changes to Wyoming's regulatory program under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. These changes allow for the disposal of decommissioned wind turbine blades and towers as backfill in surface coal mining operations. The amendment aims to address the disposal challenges posed by the large number of wind turbine components while ensuring compliance with existing environmental standards. The rule will become effective on February 12, 2025, and does not impact air or water quality standards, so no further Environmental Protection Agency concurrence was needed.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced the availability of funds for grants under the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program. This notice of funding opportunity outlines the application process for both renewal and new applicants, specifying that operations funded by these grants will start on October 1, 2025. The main goal of the program is to provide supportive services to very low-income veteran families that are either currently homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. The notice also details funding priorities, application submission instructions, and the eligibility criteria for organizations interested in applying for the grants.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public and federal agency comments on its information collection standards as part of its effort to reduce paperwork burdens, in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. This includes proposals to improve the quality and clarity of collected information and reduce the burden on small businesses. One of the key areas under review is the modification of rules for FM digital broadcasting. These changes aim to facilitate greater coverage for digital FM radio by allowing asymmetric sideband operations with different power levels, simplifying notification procedures, and potentially reducing costs for licensees.

Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC has requested authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to abandon five wells and associated pipelines in West Virginia as part of the 2021 Coco B and Coco C Wells Abandonment Project. The abandonment is under the company's blanket certificate and is expected to have no impact on existing customers or storage operations, with a project cost of approximately $2.8 million. The public can participate by filing protests, motions to intervene, or comments by March 15, 2021. Interested parties can file electronically or by mail, and further information is available on the FERC website.

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is inviting public comments on the FERC-725S information collection regarding Emergency Preparedness and Operations Reliability Standards. This request is part of an effort to revise and improve existing cold weather reliability standards for generators and ensure the Bulk-Power System operates reliably during extreme cold weather events. The proposed changes involve modifications to the requirements for generator cold weather preparedness and corrective action plans. Public comments are due by January 21, 2025, and can be submitted electronically or by mail.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a final rule to update its regulations by incorporating the latest standards (Version 004) for business practices and communication protocols for public utilities. These standards, developed by the North American Energy Standards Board (NAESB), aim to enhance consistency in utility operations and bolster cybersecurity. FERC requires utilities to make compliance filings by June 27, 2025, and to implement cybersecurity standards by February 27, 2026, with the remaining standards by August 27, 2026. The rule ensures public utilities adhere to updated practices that support reliable and secure energy systems.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking public comments on an information collection process as part of its efforts to reduce paperwork burdens, following the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The proposed collection aims to gather information necessary for the FCC's operations and improve the quality and efficiency of data collected. Comments are requested on various aspects, such as the necessity of the collection, the accuracy of burden estimates, and methods to reduce the burden on respondents, particularly small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. Interested parties have until February 4, 2025, to submit their feedback.

The Coast Guard has issued a final rule to create a regulated navigation area around the Port of Miami. This rule sets a slow speed zone for vessels under 50 meters in length in Fisherman's Channel and the Main Ship Channel to reduce navigational hazards and protect vessels in this busy area. The rule, effective from January 29, 2025, aims to improve safety for both passenger and cargo operations by minimizing the risks posed by high-speed vessel traffic. The new measures also allow for better monitoring by law enforcement to ensure compliance and bolster port security.